Question

Which of these bacteria forms heat-resistant spores and can survive inadequate cooking, potentially causing food poisoning?

• A. Bacillus cereus
• B. Lactobacillus casei
• C. Staphylococcus aureus
• D. Vibrio cholerae

Hint:

Bacillus cereus = Heat-resistant spores = Food poisoning, especially with improperly stored rice, pasta, and potatoes.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Bacillus cereus is a spore-forming bacterium that can produce heat-resistant spores. These spores are able to survive the cooking process and can germinate to form vegetative cells, which may lead to food poisoning if the food is not properly stored or reheated.
Bacillus cereus is commonly found in starchy foods such as rice, pasta, and potatoes. If these foods are improperly handled (e.g., left at room temperature for too long), the spores can germinate, and the bacteria can produce toxins that cause gastrointestinal illness.
Let’s analyze the incorrect options:
- Lactobacillus casei is a beneficial bacterium used in the fermentation of dairy products, not associated with heat-resistant spores.
- Staphylococcus aureus can produce toxins that cause food poisoning, but it does not form heat-resistant spores like Bacillus cereus.
- Vibrio cholerae is responsible for cholera, but it is not a spore-forming bacterium and does not survive cooking in the same way.
Therefore, the correct answer is Bacillus cereus, a spore-forming bacterium that survives inadequate cooking.