Question

Q1.

a. Using a process flow diagram, describe the production process an alcoholic beverage.

b. Identify all major unit operations and their importance in the production process in (a) above.

Q2.

Describe the role of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) in enhancing consumer confidence in the safety of locally manufactured yoghurts .

Answer 1

Solution 1a:

Following is a process flow diagram of production of an alcoholic beverage (Whiskey):

Preparation Mashing Fermentation Distillation Aging Bottling

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Solution 1b:

The process of manufacturing Whiskey requires three primary raw materials:

1. Water
2. Barley and
3. Yeast.

The quality of barley is essential in determining the quality of the final product. The quality of water is also paramount as the difference in taste is due to the different water varieties. The fermentation process starts with the yeast.

The details of the unit operation are as follows:

1. Preparation >> Various grains are ground while the barley is malted for about three weeks to let it sprout after it is dried and heated.
2. Mashing >> The cooked grain and malted barley are added to warm water known as mash.
3. Fermentation >> The mash is added to a fermentation tank with yeast. The yeast converts the sugar into alcohol. After 3-4 days, the liquid becomes 10% alcohol and is known as wash.
4. Distillation >> Wash is heated to a point where alcohol turns into vapor and is collected in a second container.
5. Aging >> Water is added to distilled alcohol and aged in wooden barrels made from oak. General aging time is 3-4 years, while premium products are aged for 10-15 years.
6. Bottling >> Final product is stored in glass bottles as glass does not react with the product quality.

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Solution 2:

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has set specific rules for the production of yogurt. It mandates that yogurt has to be made with live cultures. The label must specify what microorganisms are present and in what quantity. It should also determine the known health benefits of the particular strains used. The label should also clearly mention the manufacturing date, the expiration date, the serving size suggestions, company name, and how to store it properly.

The FDA closely monitors production to ensure that the customers are confident about the safety of the yogurt manufactured locally.