Final answer:
Among the listed items, precooked shrimp and fresh vegetables are considered ready-to-eat foods, assuming vegetables are properly washed to remove contaminants. Raw chicken must be cooked, and unwashed fruits need to be cleaned prior to consumption.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question asks about which items in a list would define ready-to-eat foods. Ready-to-eat foods are those that can be consumed without additional preparation, particularly cooking, which means they do not contain harmful bacteria that can cause foodborne illnesses when eaten as is. Considering the items provided, precooked shrimp and fresh vegetables are typically included in the list of ready-to-eat foods. Nevertheless, it is important to note that fresh vegetables should be washed properly to avoid any potential contamination. Raw chicken is not ready-to-eat and requires proper cooking to ensure any harmful bacteria such as Salmonella are killed. Unwashed fruits fall into a similar category as fresh vegetables and need to be cleaned before they are ready to eat.
Being aware of the risk of foodborne illness is crucial when handling and preparing food. Bacteria such as Salmonella, Camylobacter jejuni, E. coli, Vibrio, and Listeria can be present in different types of foods if they are not handled or prepared correctly. Foods such as raw or undercooked poultry, meat, and seafood must be cooked thoroughly, and separation from ready-to-eat foods must be ensured to avoid cross-contamination.