Summative Test in Consumer Chemistry Quarter 2

Which of the following is TRUE about food additives?

• Substances that are directly or indirectly added to food to preserve the flavor or enhance its taste and appearance.

• Used to retard the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms.

• Used to enhance the qualities of foods.

• All of the above

Answer explanation

All the statements about food additives are true. They are substances added to food to enhance flavor, appearance, and preserve it, as well as to inhibit microbial growth. Therefore, the correct answer is 'All of the above'.

Which of the following chemical preservatives is present in high-fat foods?

• BHA and BHT

• Sodium Nitrate

• Sulfites

• Sodium Benzoate

Answer explanation

BHA (Butylated Hydroxyanisole) and BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene) are antioxidants commonly used to preserve high-fat foods by preventing rancidity. They are effective in extending shelf life in products like oils and snacks.

Which artificial sweetener below is 7000 times sweeter than sucrose?

• Saccharin

• Aspartame

• Sucralose

• Neotame

Answer explanation

Neotame is an artificial sweetener that is approximately 7000 times sweeter than sucrose, making it significantly sweeter than other options like saccharin, aspartame, and sucralose.

The following are the chemical properties of food additives EXCEPT

• Exhibit a wide range of anti-microbial properties.

• Toxic to humans or animals.

• Used to change or maintain pH

• Aids in the processing of raw materials in food biotechnology.

Answer explanation

Food additives are designed to be safe for consumption and enhance food quality. While they can exhibit anti-microbial properties and aid in processing, being toxic to humans or animals contradicts their purpose.

Which of the following statements about non-nutritive sweeteners in INCORRECT?

• It contains synthetic chemicals.

• It offers very low or no calories at all.

• It is obtained from natural sources.

• Also called artificial sweeteners.

Answer explanation

The statement 'It is obtained from natural sources' is incorrect because most non-nutritive sweeteners are synthetic, not derived from natural sources.

Which of the following conditions must exist to justify the use of food additives as suggested by the Food and Drug Administration?

• It results in an advantage on the part of the food.

• It does not present an appreciable health risk to consumers.

• It does not mislead the consumer.

• All of the above

Answer explanation

To justify the use of food additives, all conditions must be met: they should provide a benefit, pose no significant health risk, and not mislead consumers. Therefore, the correct answer is 'All of the above'.

Classify the following chemical additives: Saccharin

• Preservative

• Artificial sweetener

Answer explanation

Saccharin is classified as an artificial sweetener because it is used to provide sweetness without calories, unlike preservatives which are used to prevent spoilage.

Classify the following chemical additives: Butylated hydroxyanisole

• Preservative

• Artificial sweetener

Answer explanation

Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) is classified as a preservative because it is used to prevent oxidation and spoilage in food products, extending their shelf life. It is not an artificial sweetener.

Classify the following chemical additives: Sodium Benzoate

• Preservative

• Artificial sweetener

Answer explanation

Sodium Benzoate is classified as a preservative because it inhibits the growth of bacteria, yeast, and fungi, thereby extending the shelf life of food products. It is not an artificial sweetener.

Classify the following chemical additives: Acesulfame potassium

• Preservative

• Artificial sweetener

Answer explanation

Acesulfame potassium is classified as an artificial sweetener because it is used to provide sweetness without calories, unlike preservatives which are used to extend shelf life.