Michigan Food Safety Management Practice Test

Which of the following is not classified as a highly susceptible population?

1. Elderly People

2. Professional Athletes

3. Pregnant Women

4. Breast Fed Babies and the Very Young

The correct answer is: Professional Athletes

The correct identification of professional athletes as not being classified as a highly susceptible population is based on the general understanding of health risks. Highly susceptible populations typically include groups that have a weakened immune response or specific vulnerabilities, such as the elderly, pregnant women, and very young children, who are all at greater risk for foodborne illnesses. Professional athletes, on the other hand, often maintain a high level of physical health, training, and nutrition, which can bolster their immune systems compared to other groups. While training regimens and elite performance are demanding, athletes are generally not categorized among those who have heightened risks from foodborne pathogens, unlike the other listed groups. In essence, professional athletes are less likely to have the same level of health concerns from food safety incidents compared to individuals within the other classifications who might be more vulnerable to severe consequences from illness.