Why is it important to use pasteurized products?

Using pasteurized products is essential primarily because pasteurization effectively kills harmful bacteria and pathogens that can pose serious health risks. This process involves heating food products to a specific temperature for a set period, which inactivates or destroys microorganisms that can cause foodborne illnesses. By ensuring that dairy products and juices, for example, are pasteurized, you significantly reduce the likelihood of contamination and protect consumers from illnesses caused by bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria.

In terms of food safety, pasteurization is a critical step in preventing outbreaks of foodborne diseases. It contributes to public health by ensuring that the food products consumed are safe, especially for vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, or people with weakened immune systems.

While the other options regarding flavor enhancement, shelf life extension, and nutritional value may provide benefits in certain circumstances, the primary purpose of pasteurization is centered around safety and health protection by eliminating dangerous microorganisms.