What is meant by food preservation?

Food preservation refers to the control of the safety and quality of food items to prevent spoilage and extend their shelf life. This involves various techniques and methods that inhibit the growth of harmful microorganisms, delay food spoilage, and maintain the nutritional value and sensory attributes of the food. Through preservation, food can remain safe and enjoyable for consumption over longer periods, which is essential in reducing health risks associated with spoiled foods and minimizing food waste.

While options related to eliminating food waste, enhancing flavor, and packaging are important aspects of food handling, they do not encapsulate the primary objective of food preservation, which centers around maintaining the integrity and safety of food items during storage and distribution.