Refrigerable Meaning: Definition and Examples
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refrigerable
[rɪˈfrɪdʒəbl ]
Definition
food preservation
Refrigerable describes items that can be stored in a refrigerator to keep them fresh and safe from spoilage. Food and beverages are commonly referred to as refrigerable when they require low temperatures for preservation.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- Milk is refrigerable and should be stored in the fridge.
- Certain fruits are refrigerable to extend their shelf life.
- Most deli meats are refrigerable and need to be kept chilled.
Interesting Facts
Science
- Keeping food refrigerable helps slow down bacterial growth, which can make food spoil faster.
- Temperature control is essential for the safety of perishable items, as improper storage can lead to foodborne illnesses.
Culinary Practices
- Chefs often emphasize the importance of using refrigerable ingredients to maintain quality and flavor in dishes.
- Certain fruits and vegetables are best stored refrigerated, while others may lose flavor or texture, highlighting the need for knowledge in food storage.
Cultural References
- In cartoons, you often see characters rummaging through a fridge, symbolizing hidden delights and surprises waiting to be discovered.
- Popular culture often depicts the refrigerator as the heart of the kitchen, where families gather to plan meals and share memories.
Environmental Concerns
- The energy used by refrigerators contributes to a significant portion of household electricity consumption, leading to discussions about energy-efficient models.
- Increasing awareness of food waste has sparked innovations in prolonging the shelf life of refrigerable products, encouraging sustainable practices.
Origin of 'refrigerable'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'refrigerable' comes from the Latin word 'refrigerare', meaning 'to cool or chill'.
- It has been used in English since the mid-19th century, originally related to preserving food.
The term 'refrigerable' is derived from the Latin word 'refrigerare,' which means 'to cool' or 'to make cool.' This root came into English usage in the early 19th century as the technology for refrigeration began to develop and become more commonplace in food preservation. The suffix '-able' indicates the ability of an object to undergo the action described by the verb, thus forming an adjective that denotes the potential for cooling. Initially applied to machinery and processes, the term has now become closely associated with the food industry as the demand for fresh, preserved foods has increased. As the concept of refrigeration evolved, so did the vocabulary that accompanied it. The word 'refrigerable' reflects a modern understanding of food safety and storage practices in households and industries alike.