Question:medium

Explain the role of salt in the preservation of horticultural produce.

Updated On: Jan 13, 2026
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Solution and Explanation

Preservative Mechanism: Salt functions as a preservative by inhibiting microbial proliferation. High Osmotic Pressure: Salt establishes a high osmotic pressure, thereby extracting moisture from microbial cells, inducing plasmolysis and cell death. Dehydration: It also contributes to the dehydration of both food and microorganisms. Chloride Ion Generation: Salt dissociates into chloride ions, which are detrimental to microbial life. Oxygen Solubility Reduction: Salt decreases the solubility of oxygen in water, subsequently increasing cellular sensitivity to CO2.
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