Question

We live in a microbial world, and there are many opportunities for food to become contaminated as it is produced and prepared. Many food-borne microbes are present in healthy animals (usually in their intestines) raised for food. Meat and poultry carcasses can become contaminated during slaughter by contact with small amounts of intestinal contents. Similarly, fresh fruits and vegetables can be contaminated if they are washed or irrigated with water that is contaminated with animal manure or human sewage.

What does the language used in this passage reveal about its purpose?
A) The language is humorous, implying that the purpose is to satirize the food industry.
B) The language is persuasive, implying that the purpose is to convince the reader to avoid contaminated water.
C) The language is technical, implying that the purpose is to instruct the reader in how to build a water purifier.
D) The language is informative, implying that the purpose is to educate the reader about the causes of food contamination.

Answer 1

The language in the passage is informative, targeted to educate the reader about food contamination and the importance of preventing foodborne illnesses by preventing cross-contamination and ensuring proper food safety practices.

Step-by-step explanation:

The language used in the passage provided reveals that its purpose is to educate the reader about the causes of food contamination. The informative style is evident as it explains how meat and poultry can become contaminated during slaughter and how fruits and vegetables can be tainted when washed or irrigated with water contaminated with animal or human waste. The passage highlights the importance of understanding contamination to prevent foodborne illnesses.

Cross-contamination is a major way foods become contaminated, which occurs when microbes are transferred from one food item to another. Raw foods like eggs, poultry, and meat are common sources of Salmonella and should not contact ready-to-eat foods. Moreover, proper cleaning of utensils and surfaces used for preparing raw foods is crucial.

Bacterial contamination can have serious health implications, leading to foodborne diseases. Food safety entails routine testing for pathogenic bacteria to protect consumer health, and cooking meat adequately and practicing good hygiene are advocated for preventing such illnesses. Additionally, water pollution and sewage treatment are discussed in context to their role in mitigating the spread of pathogenic microorganisms.