How does the microorganism Yeast spoil food?

Yeast is a type of fungus that is commonly found in the environment. It is responsible for the spoilage of many different types of food, including bread, fruit, and vegetables. Yeast can also cause food to ferment, which can produce off-flavors and aromas.

There are several ways that yeast can spoil food. One way is by producing carbon dioxide gas. This gas can cause bread to rise and become light and fluffy. However, if too much carbon dioxide gas is produced, it can cause bread to become too airy and crumbly. Yeast can also produce ethanol, which is a type of alcohol. Ethanol can give food a sour or bitter taste.

In addition to producing carbon dioxide gas and ethanol, yeast can also produce other enzymes that can break down the components of food. For example, yeast can produce enzymes that can break down the proteins in meat and fish. This can cause these foods to become soft and mushy. Yeast can also produce enzymes that can break down the carbohydrates in fruits and vegetables. This can cause these foods to become soft and watery.

Yeast can also cause food to become contaminated with other microorganisms, such as bacteria and mold. This can lead to the growth of harmful bacteria that can cause food poisoning.

To prevent food from being spoiled by yeast, it is important to keep food refrigerated and to avoid leaving food out at room temperature for long periods of time. It is also important to cook food thoroughly and to avoid cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods.