What textural shift indicates degradation in crisp foods like lettuce or celery?
Answer
Wilting or sliminess.
Texture provides crucial physical evidence regarding the state of fresh produce, especially those items intended to maintain rigidity and crispness. Foods such as lettuce or celery rely on internal turgor pressure to maintain their structure. When spoilage begins, moisture is often lost or microbial activity alters the cell walls, leading to a distinct textural compromise. This compromise is evidenced by wilting, where the structure collapses, or the development of sliminess, which is often indicative of bacterial film formation on the surface. If these textural shifts are observed, it signals that the degradation process is underway, and the food is past its peak quality.
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