Haltbarkeitssteigerung
Haltbarkeitssteigerung, or shelf-life extension, refers to the process of increasing the duration for which a product remains safe for consumption or use. This can be achieved through various methods, including physical, chemical, and biological techniques. Physical methods involve the use of low temperatures, vacuum packaging, and modified atmosphere packaging to slow down the degradation processes. Chemical methods include the addition of preservatives, antioxidants, and antimicrobial agents to inhibit the growth of microorganisms and prevent chemical reactions that lead to spoilage. Biological methods involve the use of natural enzymes, probiotics, and other microorganisms to break down or neutralize spoilage agents. The goal of haltbarkeitssteigerung is to maintain the quality, safety, and nutritional value of products while extending their shelf life, thereby reducing waste and improving cost-efficiency in the supply chain. This is particularly important in the food industry, where freshness and safety are paramount, and in the pharmaceutical industry, where stability and efficacy are crucial.