10 questions, graded as you go, with the reason for every answer. Start free, no sign-up.
What this covers
Hazard types
Bacterial growth
High-risk foods
Food poisoning bacteria
Spores and toxins
Viruses
Vulnerable groups
Spoilage and pathogens
Carriers
Symptoms
Natural toxins
Chemical hazards
Sample questions
By what process do bacteria multiply?
Spore formation
Pasteurisation
Fermentation
Binary fission
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D. Binary fission
Bacteria multiply by binary fission, where one cell splits into two. Spore formation is a survival mechanism used by some bacteria in harsh conditions; it does not increase their numbers.
In ideal conditions, roughly how often can food poisoning bacteria divide?
Every 1 to 2 minutes
Every 2 to 3 hours
Every 10 to 20 minutes
Every 12 to 24 hours
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C. Every 10 to 20 minutes
With warmth, food, moisture and time, many bacteria can double in number about every 10 to 20 minutes, so a few cells can become millions within hours. Every two to three hours would greatly underestimate how quickly food left out becomes dangerous.
Cooked rice is moist, ready to eat and supports bacterial growth, so it is high risk. Dried pasta is tempting because it is a similar staple, but it has too little moisture for bacteria to multiply until it is cooked.