Starbucks Food Safety Practice Exam

Which of the following is an example of PHF?

1. Beef jerky

2. Crispy bacon

3. Raw and cooked meats

4. Air-cooled hard-boiled eggs with intact shells

The correct answer is: Raw and cooked meats

Potentially Hazardous Foods (PHF) are those that provide a suitable environment for the growth of pathogenic microorganisms. These foods typically have a high moisture content, a neutral pH, and are rich in nutrients, making them prone to spoilage or foodborne illness if not handled properly. Raw and cooked meats are considered examples of PHF because they can harbor harmful bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria, especially when they are not cooked to the proper temperature or are not stored correctly. Both raw and cooked meats are also high in protein, which microorganisms thrive on, further emphasizing their classification as PHF. For the other options, beef jerky and crispy bacon have undergone processes that reduce their moisture content, which inhibits bacterial growth. Air-cooled hard-boiled eggs with intact shells also have a low risk for bacterial proliferation, as the cooking process eliminates most pathogens and the shells provide a barrier. Therefore, they do not fit the criteria for PHF like raw and cooked meats do.