Which bacteria can grow at temperatures below 41 degrees and is known for causing listeriosis?

Which bacteria can grow at temperatures below 41 degrees and is known for causing listeriosis?

• A. Escherichia coli
• B. Salmonella
• C. Listeria monocytogenes
• D. Campylobacter jejuni

Answer: (C)

Listeria monocytogenes is the correct answer because it is unique among foodborne pathogens in its ability to thrive at refrigeration temperatures, even below 41 degrees Fahrenheit. This characteristic allows it to grow in ready-to-eat foods that are improperly stored, posing a significant risk for listeriosis, which can have severe health implications, particularly for pregnant women, newborns, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. In contrast, the other listed bacteria do not share this ability to grow at such low temperatures. Escherichia coli, Salmonella, and Campylobacter jejuni generally prefer warmer environments for optimal growth, usually above 41 degrees Fahrenheit. These bacteria can still cause serious foodborne illnesses, but their growth is typically hindered at refrigeration temperatures, making Listeria monocytogenes particularly notable for its capacity to cause illness in chilled foods.

Listeria monocytogenes is the correct answer because it is unique among foodborne pathogens in its ability to thrive at refrigeration temperatures, even below 41 degrees Fahrenheit. This characteristic allows it to grow in ready-to-eat foods that are improperly stored, posing a significant risk for listeriosis, which can have severe health implications, particularly for pregnant women, newborns, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.

In contrast, the other listed bacteria do not share this ability to grow at such low temperatures. Escherichia coli, Salmonella, and Campylobacter jejuni generally prefer warmer environments for optimal growth, usually above 41 degrees Fahrenheit. These bacteria can still cause serious foodborne illnesses, but their growth is typically hindered at refrigeration temperatures, making Listeria monocytogenes particularly notable for its capacity to cause illness in chilled foods.