Question

Syneresis or weeping is a defect in__________

• A. Jelly
• B. Pickles
• C. Juices
• D. Jam

Hint:

Associate the term "syneresis" or "weeping" with any food that is a gel. Common examples in exams include jelly, jam, yogurt, and custards. The key is the presence of a 3D network that traps liquid.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Syneresis, also known as weeping, is the contraction of a gel, which results in the separation or "weeping" of liquid from the gel structure. This phenomenon occurs in food systems that are based on a gel network, such as those formed by proteins (e.g., yogurt) or polysaccharides (e.g., pectin in jellies).
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
- (A) Jelly: A jelly is a clear or translucent fruit spread made from fruit juice, sugar, and pectin. It is a classic example of a pectin gel. If the gel network is unstable (due to improper pH, sugar concentration, or pectin quality), it can shrink over time and squeeze out the liquid it holds, which is a common defect known as syneresis.
- (B) Pickles: Pickles are vegetables preserved in brine or vinegar; they are not a gel system.
- (C) Juices: Juices are liquids and do not have a gel structure.
- (D) Jam: Jam is also a pectin gel, similar to jelly, but it contains fruit pulp or pieces. Syneresis can also occur in jam, but it is a quintessential and highly visible defect in a clear jelly. Given the options, jelly is the most precise answer representing a pure gel system where this defect is prominent.
Step 4: Final Answer:
Syneresis is a characteristic defect of gel-based foods. Among the options provided, jelly is the best example of a food product defined by its gel structure where weeping is a well-known quality issue. Therefore, option (A) is the correct answer.