Texas Food Managers Certification Practice Exam

Which of the following food protection practices would be most effective in preventing salmonellosis?

1. Cooking food to 165 F for 15 seconds before serving

2. Having a good pest control program

3. Having all employees wear hair restraints

4. Buying meat and poultry from an approved source

The correct answer is: Cooking food to 165 F for 15 seconds before serving

Cooking food to a minimum internal temperature of 165°F for at least 15 seconds is highly effective in preventing salmonellosis, a foodborne illness caused by Salmonella bacteria. The reason this practice is crucial is that cooking food to this temperature effectively kills harmful pathogens, including Salmonella, that might be present in the food. This method of cooking ensures that any bacteria are eradicated, providing a significant barrier against foodborne illness when the food is served. While the other options listed contribute to overall food safety, they do not provide the same direct control over the pathogens that can cause salmonellosis. A pest control program helps minimize the risk of contamination from pests, but it does not address existing bacteria in food. Employee hair restraints are important for hygiene and can prevent hair from contaminating food, but they do not prevent bacteria like Salmonella. Purchasing meat and poultry from approved sources is essential for ensuring quality and safety before food preparation, yet, again, it does not guarantee the elimination of bacteria that could be present unless the food is cooked properly. Thus, the most effective measure specifically for preventing salmonellosis is cooking food to the appropriate temperature and duration to ensure safety.