Final answer:
True, FAT TOM is an abbreviation for the six conditions that bacteria need to grow, which include Food, Acidity, Time, Temperature, Oxygen, and Moisture.
Step-by-step explanation:
This statement is True. FAT TOM stands for Food, Acidity, Time, Temperature, Oxygen, and Moisture, which are indeed the six essential conditions necessary for bacterial growth. Each element provides an aspect of the environment that supports the proliferation of bacteria. For instance, most bacteria require high moisture to grow, with few exceptions. Understanding these conditions can help in developing strategies for controlling bacterial growth and can be critical for ensuring food safety, as halotolerant pathogens can be a significant source of foodborne illnesses due to their ability to grow in salty conditions.