Michigan Food Safety Management Practice Test

Which of the following describes bacterial growth?

1. Degradation

2. Multiplication

3. Stagnation

4. Fermentation

The correct answer is: Multiplication

Bacterial growth primarily refers to the process of multiplication, which is when one bacterium divides and forms two, then those two bacteria can each divide and form four, and so on. This exponential increase in the number of cells is a fundamental characteristic of bacteria and is essential for their survival and reproduction. Understanding this multiplication process is crucial in food safety, as rapid bacterial growth can lead to food spoilage or foodborne illnesses if conditions are favorable, such as in terms of temperature, moisture, and nutrient availability. Recognizing the significance of bacterial multiplication helps food safety managers implement proper storage and preparation practices to inhibit the proliferation of harmful bacteria. The other options relate to different biological processes or conditions. Degradation pertains to the breakdown of substances, stagnation implies a period of little to no growth or activity, and fermentation is a metabolic process that may involve certain bacteria but does not define growth itself. These distinctions are important for comprehending how bacteria behave in food environments and how that affects safety.