Food Safety Certification Practice Test

Which food can harbor listeria?

1. Fresh fruit and vegetables

2. Hot dogs, cantaloupe, and soft cheese

3. Seafood and processed meat

4. Butter and margarine

The correct answer is: Hot dogs, cantaloupe, and soft cheese

The reason that hot dogs, cantaloupe, and soft cheese can harbor Listeria monocytogenes is that these foods have been associated with listeriosis outbreaks. Listeria is a bacterium that can thrive in cold environments, such as refrigerators, making it particularly problematic because it can contaminate foods that are often eaten raw or without further cooking. Hot dogs and processed deli meats can become contaminated during processing or packaging and may not be fully cooked before consumption. Cantaloupe can also be contaminated at the farm or during handling and distribution, especially due to its rough skin that can harbor bacteria from soil or other surfaces. Soft cheeses, particularly those made from unpasteurized milk, can provide an environment conducive to Listeria growth, as the cheese may retain moisture, allowing the bacteria to thrive. Fresh fruits and vegetables do have the potential to carry Listeria, but typically, the specific examples listed in the provided answer highlight foods with a well-documented history of Listeria contamination. Seafood and processed meats can also harbor various pathogens, but they are not as commonly associated with listeriosis as the foods in the correct choice. Butter and margarine generally have a lower risk for Listeria since the processing methods involved do