Which statement is true regarding food preservation?

The statement regarding food preservation that is true is that drying is an effective preservation method. Drying removes moisture from food, which is essential for the growth of bacteria, yeasts, and molds. By reducing the water content, drying creates a hostile environment for these microorganisms, thereby prolonging the shelf life of the food. This method can be applied to a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, herbs, and meats, and is a time-tested technique for preserving food and maintaining its nutritional value.

In contrast, the other statements do not accurately represent the effectiveness or limitations of the respective preservation methods. For instance, freezing does not kill all bacteria; while it can slow down their growth and reproduction, it does not eliminate them entirely. Similarly, canning is a proven method to reduce microbial load, but it may not be effective against certain spores unless done properly. Finally, while refrigeration slows down microbial growth, it does not completely halt it; some bacteria can still grow at refrigerator temperatures, which is why proper food handling and storage are critical.