AAA Food Manager Certification Practice Test

What food safety issue is associated with unpasteurized juices?

1. They are usually high in sugar

2. They can contain harmful bacteria

3. They are more expensive

4. They often contain preservatives

The correct answer is: They can contain harmful bacteria

Unpasteurized juices pose a significant food safety concern because they can contain harmful bacteria that may lead to foodborne illnesses. The pasteurization process involves heating the juice to a specific temperature for a set period, which effectively kills pathogens, including bacteria such as E.coli, Salmonella, and Listeria. Without this crucial step, unpasteurized juices remain a potential source of contamination, posing a risk to consumers, especially those with weakened immune systems, young children, and the elderly. While unpasteurized juices can indeed be high in sugar, or lack preservatives which might be included in pasteurized varieties, these aspects do not directly relate to an immediate health risk as harmful bacteria do. Furthermore, the cost factor is not inherently linked to the safety of the juice but rather reflects other production and market decisions. Therefore, identifying the presence of harmful bacteria as the key food safety issue clearly highlights the risks associated with consuming unpasteurized juices.