Which of the following is a property of antioxidants?

Antioxidants are substances that prevent or slow down the oxidation process in other compounds. An important property of antioxidants is their ability to be oxidized themselves, which is part of how they function. They donate electrons to free radicals or oxidizing agents, thereby neutralizing these potentially harmful compounds and preventing them from causing damage to cells and tissues. This characteristic is essential because it allows antioxidants to protect other molecules from oxidative stress.

The other properties presented in the choices do not accurately describe the role or characteristics of antioxidants. While some antioxidants may have flavor-enhancing properties, this is not their primary function or a defining property. Stability and volatility can vary among different antioxidants, but generally, effective antioxidants need to be stable enough to fulfill their role effectively without rapidly breaking down. Though antioxidants can help prolong shelf life by preventing oxidative spoilage in various products, stating they do so without any side effects overlooks the fact that the effects can vary based on the specific antioxidant and its concentration. Thus, the property of being easily oxidized underscores the fundamental mechanism that allows antioxidants to perform their protective role.