Texas Food Safety Managers Practice Test

Which of the following bacteria is commonly associated with undercooked poultry?

1. Escherichia coli

2. Salmonella

3. Listeria

4. Staphylococcus aureus

The correct answer is: Salmonella

Salmonella is indeed the bacteria commonly associated with undercooked poultry. This bacterium is often found in the intestines of birds and can contaminate the meat during processing. Consuming undercooked poultry that contains Salmonella can lead to gastrointestinal illness, which is characterized by symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. Understanding the specific association of Salmonella with poultry is crucial for food safety practices. This emphasizes the importance of cooking poultry to the appropriate internal temperature to ensure that any harmful bacteria are killed. The safe cooking temperature for poultry is typically 165°F (74°C), which effectively reduces the risk of foodborne illness caused by Salmonella. Other bacteria mentioned, like Escherichia coli, Listeria, and Staphylococcus aureus, have different sources and are not primarily associated with undercooked poultry. E. coli is commonly linked to undercooked beef, particularly ground beef. Listeria can be found in ready-to-eat deli meats and unpasteurized dairy products, while Staphylococcus aureus is associated with foods that are handled by people and then improperly stored. Each bacterium has unique pathways of contamination and specific foods that pose a risk, making it essential for food safety managers to understand