Pasteurize Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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pasteurize

[หˆpรฆstสƒษ™raษชz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

food preservation

Pasteurize refers to the process of heating a liquid, such as milk or juice, to a specific temperature for a set period in order to kill harmful bacteria and pathogens. This method, named after the French scientist Louis Pasteur, is commonly used to ensure food safety and extend shelf life. It is an essential step in the production of various dairy products, juices, and other consumables, significantly reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses. Pasteurization does not sterilize the product, but it helps maintain its quality while making it safe for consumption.

Synonyms

heat, sterilize, treat.

Examples of usage

  • They pasteurize the milk before packaging it.
  • Pasteurized juice is safer to drink than raw juice.
  • Many cheeses are made from pasteurized milk.

Translations

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Origin of 'pasteurize'

The term 'pasteurize' originated in the late 19th century and is derived from the name of the French microbiologist Louis Pasteur, who conducted pioneering research in the field of microbiology. Pasteur's work demonstrated that microorganisms cause spoiling and disease, leading to the development of the pasteurization process. The technique was first applied in the 1860s to prevent spoilage in wine, and subsequently extended to other food products, such as milk and fruit juices. Pasteur's innovative methods transformed food safety standards and have since become a fundamental practice in the food industry worldwide, significantly reducing incidences of foodborne illnesses.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,528, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.