What is the primary function of a pasteurizer?

The primary function of a pasteurizer is to heat liquid foods to a specific temperature for a defined period. This process effectively eliminates harmful microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites, which can pose health risks if consumed. By using pasteurization, food safety is significantly enhanced without adversely affecting the nutritional quality or taste of the product.

The other processes mentioned, such as freezing or adding preservatives, serve different purposes in food preservation and safety. Freezing is designed to prolong the shelf life of food by slowing down enzyme activity, while adding preservatives is a method to inhibit microbial growth or chemical changes without necessarily involving heat. Diluting food products before packaging does not address the need for eliminating pathogens and is not a core function of pasteurization. Thus, the correct answer accurately reflects the essential purpose of the pasteurization process in food safety.