Yes, ethyl alcohol (95% grain alcohol) is commonly used in herbal extracts not just as a solvent, but to prevent molds and bacteria from forming. In the case of specific foods, I'm unaware of any, but citric acid, potassium sorbate, salt, sorbic acid and even ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) are used to prevent the re-fermentation of wines, to stop the browning of a recently cut banana or apple.
I cant really gove you an answer,but what I can give you is a way to a solution, that is you have to find the anglde that you relate to or peaks your interest. A good paper is one that people get drawn into because it reaches them ln some way.As for me WW11 to me, I think of the holocaust and the effect it had on the survivors, their families and those who stood by and did nothing until it was too late.