Final answer:
The potential cost of a foodborne illness to an operation is increased insurance premiums due to financial losses, lawsuits, and heightened safety measures.
Step-by-step explanation:
The potential cost that a foodborne illness brings to an operation is a) Increased insurance premiums. This is because foodborne illnesses like botulism can lead to significant financial losses for a food operation, stemming from lawsuits, loss of reputation, and the need to implement more stringent safety measures. Insurance companies may raise premiums for businesses with a history of such incidents as a means to cover potential future claims. Additionally, government agencies like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) play a role in ensuring food safety, and failure to meet their standards due to foodborne illness outbreaks could lead to fines and other penalties. Good food safety practices at home and in operations, such as proper handwashing, avoiding cross-contamination, and temperature control, are crucial to prevent foodborne illnesses.