Sanitation Certification Practice Test

What is a control measure for preventing bacterial growth in foods?

1. Cooking to appropriate temperatures

2. Using expired ingredients

3. Adding preservatives

4. Reducing cooking time

The correct answer is: Cooking to appropriate temperatures

Cooking to appropriate temperatures is a vital control measure for preventing bacterial growth in foods because it effectively kills harmful microorganisms. Different types of bacteria thrive at various temperatures, and by cooking food to a minimum internal temperature — based on food safety guidelines — you can ensure that any bacteria present are destroyed. For instance, cooking meat to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is generally effective in eliminating pathogens such as Salmonella and E. coli, which can lead to foodborne illnesses. Using expired ingredients can lead to food safety risks, as the quality of the ingredients may have degraded and may harbored harmful bacteria. Adding preservatives can help extend the shelf life of foods and inhibit bacterial growth to some extent, but it is not a substitute for proper cooking. Reducing cooking time may not be effective in achieving safe temperatures throughout the food, potentially allowing bacteria to survive. Thus, ensuring that food is cooked to the appropriate temperatures is an essential method for safeguarding against bacterial contamination and promoting food safety.