Michigan Food Safety Management Practice Test

Can some bacteria survive in spore form and then multiply?

1. Yes

2. No

3. Only in certain conditions

4. Only through freezing

The correct answer is: Yes

Some bacteria are capable of forming spores, which are highly resistant structures that allow them to survive extreme environmental conditions, such as high temperatures, drought, and exposure to chemicals. Notably, spore-forming bacteria, like Bacillus and Clostridium species, can remain dormant for long periods. When conditions become favorable again, such as the presence of nutrients or optimal temperatures, these spores can germinate and revert to their active form, enabling them to multiply. This ability to survive in spore form and then proliferate under the right circumstances is critical in food safety management. It highlights the importance of proper food handling, cooking, and storage practices to prevent the growth of these potentially harmful bacteria after they have entered a food product. Understanding this aspect of bacterial behavior aids food safety professionals in developing effective prevention strategies against foodborne illnesses caused by spore-forming bacteria.