3.3.7.1 The role of heat
The main function of heat in food processing is to inactivate pathogenic and spoilage organisms, as well as enzyme inactivation to preserve foods and extend shelf life. Other advantages of heat processing include the destruction of anti-nutritional components of foods (e.g., trypsin inhibitors in legumes), improving the digestibility of proteins, gelatinization of starches, and the release of niacin. Higher temperatures for shorter periods achieved the same shelf life extension as food treated at lower temperatures and longer periods, and allowed retention of sensory and nutritional properties.