Food Manager Practice Exam

What type of bacteria can form spores and is often associated with improperly cooled or held cooked rice?

1. Bacillus cereus

2. Listeria monocytogenes

3. Clostridium botulinum

4. Norovirus

The correct answer is: Bacillus cereus

Bacillus cereus is known for its ability to form spores and is particularly associated with foodborne illness linked to starchy foods like rice, especially when it is inadequately cooled or held at improper temperatures. When cooked rice is left at room temperature for several hours, the spores can activate and multiply, leading to the production of toxins that can cause gastrointestinal distress. This bacterium is capable of surviving the cooking process because of its spore-forming capability, making it a significant concern in food safety. In contrast, Listeria monocytogenes is primarily associated with unpasteurized dairy products and ready-to-eat meats, Clostridium botulinum typically relates to improperly canned or fermented foods rather than rice, and Norovirus is a virus responsible for gastroenteritis rather than a spore-forming bacterium. Understanding these associations helps in implementing safe food handling practices to prevent foodborne illnesses.