Starbucks Food Safety Practice Exam

Under what conditions can bacteria double their population?

1. Under high temperatures

2. Under unfavorable conditions

3. Under favorable conditions every 20 to 30 minutes

4. Only in the presence of moisture

The correct answer is: Under favorable conditions every 20 to 30 minutes

Bacteria can double their population under favorable conditions, typically every 20 to 30 minutes. This rapid growth occurs in environments that provide optimal levels of nutrients, temperature, pH, and moisture. When these conditions are met, bacteria can efficiently reproduce through a process called binary fission, whereby a single bacterium divides into two, resulting in exponential growth. Factors that contribute to these favorable conditions include the presence of nutrients, a suitable temperature (usually warm environments for most pathogenic bacteria), and sufficient moisture. This synergy enables bacteria to thrive and multiply quickly, which is why understanding these conditions is crucial in food safety practices. Ensuring that food is kept outside this growth window is vital to preventing foodborne illnesses.