Shelf life

High school (ages 12+)
Food & Cooking

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/shelf-life

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the primary determinants?Intrinsic product stability, environmental storage conditions, and packaging technology
2. What is the regulatory distinction?Critical difference between 'best before' (quality) and 'use by' (safety) dates
3. What does "best before" mean on a food label?It tells you when the food might start to taste or look less good, but it can still be safe to eat after that date.
4. Why is a "use by" date more important than a "best before" date?A "use by" date is about safety; after that date, germs or chemicals could make you sick.

Kinetics: The study of the rates of chemical reactions and the factors that affect them.
Oxidation: A chemical reaction involving the loss of electrons, often leading to degradation or spoilage.
Microbial Proliferation: The rapid increase in the number of microorganisms, such as bacteria or mold.