Many organic acids function as antimicrobial compounds in foods. One of the theo
ID: 875315 • Letter: M
Question
Many organic acids function as antimicrobial compounds in foods. One of the theories for how these organic acids function as antimicrobial compounds is that the acid must be neutral (no charge) so that it can cross the phospholipid membrane of the membrane to kill the bacteria. A new organic acid with pKa values of 3.3 and 5.1 has recently been discovered.
a. Would this organic acid be an effective antimicrobial in a meat product that has a pH of 6.2? Discuss why or why not.
b. Show the structures and the charge of the organic acid at pH 2.0, 5.1 and 6.2.
Many organic acids function as antimicrobial compounds in foods. One of the theories for how these organic acids function as antimicrobial compounds is that the acid must be neutral (no charge) so that it can cross the phospholipid membrane of the membrane to kill the bacteria. A new organic acid with pKa values of 3.3 and 5.1 has recently been discovered.
a. Would this organic acid be an effective antimicrobial in a meat product that has a pH of 6.2? Discuss why or why not.
b. Show the structures and the charge of the organic acid at pH 2.0, 5.1 and 6.2.
HO OH H HO H-C-C-C-C-C H C OH OH O-H O O-H
Explanation / Answer
The effectiveness of an organic acid as an antimicrobial agent depends on two factors
Related Questions
drjack9650@gmail.com
Navigate
Integrity-first tutoring: explanations and feedback only — we do not complete graded work. Learn more.