Select the option that is true regarding the following two statements labelled Assertion and Reason. Assertion (A): Size sorting is particularly important when food is to be heated or cooled. Reason (R): This helps prevent under or overprocessing as rate of heat transfer is partly determined by the size of the individual pieces.
Options:

Correct option is A

Assertion is true: Size sorting is a standard step in food processing, especially before thermal treatments like blanching, drying, freezing, or sterilization.
Reason is also true: The rate of heat transfer in food depends on several factors, including size and shape. Uneven sizes may lead to:
Undercooked large pieces, which could remain unsafe.
Overcooked small pieces, leading to texture and quality loss.
Proper size sorting ensures uniform heat distribution and efficient processing, reducing the chance of spoilage or safety hazards.
Since the Reason clearly explains the Assertion, the correct answer is Option (a).