Starbucks Food Safety Practice Exam

What are the four phases of bacterial growth?

1. Lag, Growth, Stationary, Death

2. Log, Stationary, Death, Dormant

3. Lag, Log, Stationary, Death

4. Growth, Peak, Decline, Dormant

The correct answer is: Lag, Log, Stationary, Death

The four phases of bacterial growth consist of Lag, Log, Stationary, and Death, making this the most accurate representation of the growth cycle of bacteria. In the Lag phase, bacteria are adjusting to their environment and are metabolically active but not dividing. This phase is crucial as it allows the bacteria to prepare for rapid growth, adapting to the available nutrients and conditions. Following the Lag phase, the Log phase is characterized by a period of exponential growth, where bacteria are actively dividing. This is when their population increases dramatically, making it a critical stage for monitoring potential food safety hazards, as bacterial levels can rise quickly if not controlled. The Stationary phase occurs when the growth rate slows, and the number of viable bacteria stabilizes. This can be due to the depletion of nutrients, accumulation of waste products, or other environmental factors. It is during this phase that bacteria may begin to enter a more resilient state, which is vital to understand for food preservation strategies. The final phase, Death, involves a decline in the number of viable bacteria due to the lack of nutrients and the buildup of toxic byproducts. Recognizing that bacteria can enter this phase is essential for food safety practices, as it highlights the importance of monitoring the conditions that allow