Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
Chlorine Dioxide (Oxine)
INTRODUCTION
Consumers require the highest quality for available food products at the fairest price,
but their definition of food quality has changed dramatically. First, “freshness” has
replaced “price” as their primary food product concern. Second, consumers have
identified the absence of certain single food additives/ingredients as determinants of
product quality; sodium, cholesterol and saturated fats, artificial food colors and
flavorings, preservatives, and caffeine are some of the ingredients that consumers feel
should be avoided. Another way consumers evaluate quality in food products is by
their shelf life. In general, consumers appear to be satisfied with packaging practices.
1
Quality and convenience are two main characteristics that consumers today need
from their food products and apparently will continue to be the keys to food-product
success for many years to come. Consumers will accept any new technology that
extends shelf life, if they perceive that the process does not diminish product quality
and if a long shelf life does not deteriorate both the quality and convenience of the
product.
1
The average consumer today has a higher level of education, more knowl-
edge about nutrition, and more money to spend on food. He defines “high-quality”
food as a fresh, safe, and natural product with the capability to prevent health and
body weight problems.
1
Changes in the traditional family structure have affected family eating patterns,
food choices, and methods for food preparation. Today's family lifestyle is related to
lack of time, often with each family member on a different schedule. That is why
snacking and the microwave oven have been so successful; the main reason for
snacking and popularity of the microwave oven is the convenience. A family may need
several different types of food products: single-serving, convenience products for the
two or three weekdays when members eat at different times; family-sized products
for those evenings when the entire family comes together; and gourmet foods for
special days. All these products would be more convenient and useful to consumers
Search WWH ::
Custom Search