Food Manager Practice Exam

Which type of parasite is commonly found in pork?

1. Ascaris

2. Tapeworm

3. Trichinosis

4. Giardia

The correct answer is: Trichinosis

The answer is correct because Trichinosis is specifically associated with a parasite known as Trichinella spiralis, which can be found in undercooked or raw pork. This parasite causes a disease called trichinosis, which occurs when a person consumes meat that contains the encysted larvae. Following ingestion, the larvae can emerge in the intestines and grow into adult worms, leading to a range of symptoms including gastrointestinal issues and muscle pain. Understanding this context is critical, as while other parasites listed can infect humans or animals, they are not specifically linked to pork. For instance, Ascaris is a roundworm common in humans that is usually contracted through contaminated food or soil rather than through pork. Tapeworms can affect a variety of animals, including pigs, but are not as directly associated with pork consumption as Trichinella. Giardia typically resides in water or contaminated food, leading to gastrointestinal disturbances, but is not related to pork at all. Thus, the distinct association of Trichinella spiralis with pork makes it the most relevant answer to the question regarding parasites commonly found in that meat.