Which type of food generally supports rapid bacterial growth because it provides abundant nutrients and water?

• A. Highly acidic foods such as vinegar or citrus juice
• B. Moist, protein-rich foods such as cooked meats or dairy products
• C. Foods with very high sugar concentration such as jams or honey
• D. Dry foods with low water activity such as crackers or dried cereal

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that bacterial growth depends on the availability of nutrients and water, which are essential for metabolism and reproduction.
2. Recognize that highly acidic foods (like vinegar or citrus juice) inhibit bacterial growth due to low pH, which creates a hostile environment for most bacteria.
3. Know that foods with very high sugar concentration (such as jams or honey) have low water activity because sugar binds water, making it unavailable for bacteria, thus slowing their growth.
4. Identify that dry foods with low water activity (like crackers or dried cereal) lack sufficient moisture, which limits bacterial growth.
5. Conclude that moist, protein-rich foods (such as cooked meats or dairy products) provide both abundant nutrients and water, creating ideal conditions for rapid bacterial growth.