Certified Professional Food Safety (CP-FS) Practice Exam

Which of the following foods is typically associated with Listeriosis outbreaks?

1. Raw poultry

2. Unpasteurized milk

3. Cooked seafood

4. Cooked vegetables

The correct answer is: Unpasteurized milk

Unpasteurized milk is commonly associated with Listeriosis outbreaks due to the presence of the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes, which can thrive in dairy products that have not undergone pasteurization. Pasteurization is a heat treatment process that kills harmful bacteria, including Listeria, which is particularly dangerous for vulnerable populations such as pregnant women, newborns, and individuals with weakened immune systems. While other options may pose food safety risks, they are not typically linked to Listeriosis as specifically as unpasteurized milk. Raw poultry, for example, is more often associated with Salmonella or Campylobacter, while cooked seafood and cooked vegetables usually do not harbor Listeria when prepared properly. Understanding these associations is crucial for preventing foodborne illnesses and ensuring food safety practices are adhered to.