Preservatives work on the principle of preventing corrosion, and their mechanism can be broadly explained as follows:
The primary goal is to disrupt the enzyme system of microorganisms, which in turn hinders their natural metabolic processes and stifles any enzyme activity.
The second purpose of heat treatment is to cause coagulation and denaturation of the proteins found in microorganisms, which then hinders their ability to survive and reproduce. This process is crucial in the destruction of harmful pathogens and is a key factor in preventing the spread of diseases. By inducing these changes in protein structure, the heat effectively neutralizes the microorganisms, rendering them unable to cause harm or propagate further. Thus, heat treatment is a valuable tool in maintaining public health and safety.
Additionally, this process serves to alter the membrane permeability of the cell, preventing the removal of important enzymes and metabolites from the body. Consequently, this can lead to the inactivation of these vital components, resulting in potentially harmful consequences for the individual.