Food Chemistry Lab

In this food chemistry virtual laboratory, students will develop a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental physico-chemical properties and reactions occurring in food systems. The lab is designed to bridge theoretical concepts with practical applications, enabling students to analyze and interpret various changes in foods. Students will perform experiments related to key food chemistry principles such as analysis of potable water quality, effect of moisture on food stability, non-enzymatic browning reactions, starch hydrolysis, oxidative stability for oils/fat and protein functionality and related reactions. Through these experiments, they will gain hands-on experience in evaluating the role of water in food systems, and assessing physico-chemical reactions that influence food quality, appearance, and nutritional value. The laboratory also emphasizes the study of macromolecules such as proteins and carbohydrates, focusing on their structural and functional properties in food matrices. Additionally, students will investigate reaction kinetics and mechanisms, such as starch hydrolysis and browning reactions, to understand how processing conditions affect food characteristics. Overall, this lab provides a strong foundation in food chemistry by integrating analytical techniques with real-world applications in food processing, quality control, and product development.