PRESERVATIVE Meaning and
Definition
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A preservative is a substance or compound that is used to prevent the growth, proliferation, or spoilage of microorganisms in various products, foods, or materials. It is primarily employed to extend the shelf life, enhance the stability, and maintain the quality of perishable goods.
Preservatives are commonly used in the food and beverage industry to inhibit the growth of bacteria, yeast, mold, and other harmful microorganisms. They prevent or slow down the enzymatic and chemical reactions that lead to deterioration, discoloration, and decomposition of food. By decreasing the microbial activity and inhibiting the occurrence of undesirable changes, preservatives help to maintain the freshness, taste, texture, and nutritional value of food and beverages for an extended period.
In addition to food products, preservatives are also utilized in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and personal care products to prevent microbial growth and spoilage. These substances safeguard the effectiveness and safety of medications, beauty products, and various items used on the body.
Preservatives can be classified into different types based on their mechanisms of action, including antimicrobial preservatives, antioxidants, and chelating agents. Antimicrobial preservatives directly inhibit or kill microorganisms, while antioxidants prevent the oxidation of substances and extend their stability. Chelating agents are responsible for binding metal ions that can catalyze various degradation reactions.
It is worth noting that the use of preservatives is regulated and monitored by regulatory authorities to ensure their safety and adherence to acceptable levels.
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• That has the power or quality of preserving.
• That which prevents injury or decay.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for PRESERVATIVE *
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Other Common Misspellings for PRESERVATIVE
Etymology of PRESERVATIVE
The word "preservative" can be divided into two parts: "preserve" and "-ive".
The term "preserve" traces its origins back to the Latin word "praeservare", which means "to guard or keep beforehand". This Latin word is a compound of "prae", meaning "before", and "servare", meaning "to keep or save".
The suffix "-ive" in English is derived from the Latin suffix "-ivus", which indicated "tending to" or "of the nature of". It was commonly used to create adjectives, such as "preservative", to describe something that has the quality or tendency to preserve.
Therefore, the word "preservative" itself refers to something that has the quality or tendency to guard, protect, or maintain something beforehand, thus preventing decay, spoilage, or other forms of damage.
Similar spelling words for PRESERVATIVE
- preserves,
- preservable,
- preserving,
- Presgraves,
- prescription,
- preservation,
- preservationist,
- preserver,
- prescriptive,
- preserved,
- proscription.
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