Why are oil and fat containing food items flushed with nitrogen?

Answer:

Oil and fat containing food items are flushed with nitrogen to prevent rancidity.

Explanation:

• Oils and fats can react with oxygen in the air.

• This reaction is called oxidation, and it causes the food to become rancid.

• Rancid food smells bad, tastes unpleasant, and becomes unfit to eat.

To prevent this, food packets are flushed with nitrogen gas before sealing.

• Nitrogen is an inert gas – it does not react with the oils and fats.

• It pushes out oxygen from the packet, preventing oxidation and keeping the food fresh for longer.