Question

Food products are kept in cold storage or refrigerator in order to
A) make them tasty
B) use in the off-season
C) Maintenance of freshness, longevity and taste due to low respiration
D) keep them cool

Answer 1

Refrigeration can substantially reduce the rate at which food will deteriorate. Some fresh fruits and vegetables, however, store quite well out of the refrigerator as long as they are stored in the cool places.

Complete answer:
Low temperature slows down the growth of microorganisms and the rate of chemical changes of enzymes in the food. These are two of the main causes of food spoilage.
Different parts of the refrigerator will operate at different temperatures. In older refrigerators, the upper shelves will often be slightly colder than the lower shelf. But in modern appliances, the temperature will be relatively uniform throughout. The refrigerator mainly consists of the thermally insulated compartment and the heat pump that transfer heat from its inside to the external environment, so that it is cooled to a temperature below room temperature. Refrigeration is an essential storage technique in developed countries. The low temperature lowers the reproduction rate of the bacteria so the refrigerator reduces the rate of spoilage. The refrigerator maintains the temperature of a few degrees above the freezing point of water. Refrigeration does not kill the pathogenic or spoilage microorganisms. Instead, it slows down the growth of microorganisms in the food. It maintains the freshness of the food.
Hence, the correct answer is option C.

Note: Freezer temperature should be maintained below 0 °F (−18 °C). Food should never be thawed at room temperature because it increases the risk of the growth of bacteria and fungus and accordingly increases the risk of food poisoning.