In the acronym FATTOM, which represents the conditions necessary for bacterial growth, what does the first "T" stand for, and how quickly can disease-causing bacteria multiply to harmful levels? A. 5-10 seconds B. 2-3 days C. 10-20 hours D. 10-20 minutes

Health Questions

In the acronym FATTOM, which represents the conditions necessary for bacterial growth, what does the first “T” stand for, and how quickly can disease-causing bacteria multiply to harmful levels? A. 5-10 seconds B. 2-3 days C. 10-20 hours D. 10-20 minutes

Short Answer

Time is crucial for bacterial growth, particularly within the temperature danger zone of 40¬¨‚àûF to 140¬¨‚àûF, where pathogens can quickly multiply. Bacteria like E. coli can double in as little as 10-20 minutes, so effective food storage and monitoring are vital to preventing harmful bacterial levels.

Step-by-Step Solution

Understand the Importance of Time in Bacterial Growth

The first T in FATTOM stands for Time, highlighting the crucial role that time plays in bacterial multiplication. Bacterial pathogens can grow quickly in favorable conditions, particularly within the temperature danger zone of 40¬¨‚àûF to 140¬¨‚àûF.

Recognize Optimal Generation Times

Bacteria can have extremely short generation times, sometimes as brief as 10-20 minutes. For example, pathogens like Escherichia coli can double in number in this timeframe, leading to potentially harmful levels if left unchecked.

Manage Food Storage Effectively

To minimize the risks associated with bacterial growth, it is essential to store food properly. Ensure that food temperatures remain outside the danger zone and monitor storage times closely to prevent bacterial multiplication.

In the acronym FATTOM, which represents the conditions necessary for …