Food Manager Practice Exam

What essential condition do bacteria require to grow in certain environments?

1. FATTOE

2. FATTOM

3. BATTOF

4. CATTOF

The correct answer is: FATTOM

Bacteria require specific conditions to thrive, commonly summarized by the acronym FATTOM, which stands for Food, Acidity, Temperature, Time, Oxygen, and Moisture. This framework helps food safety professionals understand how to control bacterial growth in food environments. The aspect of food is crucial because bacteria need nutrients to grow, which are often found in food products. Acidity levels are significant since many bacteria prefer neutral to slightly acidic environments (pH between 4.6 and 7.5), and certain bacteria can grow in low-acid foods. Temperature control is vital for preventing bacterial growth; the danger zone ranges from 41°F to 135°F (5°C to 57°C), where bacteria multiply rapidly. Time is also a critical factor; food should not be in the danger zone for more than two hours to minimize the risk of bacterial growth. Oxygen availability varies by bacteria type, with some requiring oxygen for growth, while others thrive in anaerobic conditions. Lastly, moisture levels are essential; bacteria require water to grow, and the water activity (aw) level in food can affect their survival and reproduction. The other terms provided do not represent recognized concepts related to bacterial growth conditions, making FATTOM the correct answer.