What impact does light have on sake?

Light has a significant impact on sake, primarily leading to negative effects that can damage the product. When sake is exposed to light, particularly ultraviolet (UV) light, it can undergo a chemical reaction that produces off-flavors, often described as "light-struck." This reaction occurs because the light interacts with the compounds in the sake, resulting in the release of unpleasant tasting compounds, which can significantly degrade its quality. Therefore, protecting sake from light exposure is crucial to maintain its intended flavor profile and overall integrity.

The other choices, while they may seem plausible, do not accurately reflect the relationship between light and sake. Enhancing flavors or aiding in aging is not applicable, as light exposure typically leads to deterioration rather than improvement. Similarly, stating that light has no effect overlooks the well-documented negative consequences associated with its presence in sake storage and handling. Thus, it is essential to keep sake in dark places or use opaque packaging to ensure its quality is preserved.