Final answer:
Cattle have bacteria in their digestive system that can cross over to the meat during processing. These bacteria help break down cellulose in plant material as cattle lack the digestive enzyme cellulase.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cattle have bacteria in their digestive system that can cross over to the meat during processing. The ruminant digestive system of cattle includes multiple stomach chambers such as the rumen, reticulum, omasum, and abomasum.
Ruminants, like cows and goats, consume large amounts of plant material, which is difficult to digest due to the presence of cellulose. These animals lack the enzyme cellulase, necessary to break down cellulose; however, the microorganisms in their stomachs, including bacteria, produce this enzyme and aid in the digestion process.
During meat processing, it is possible for these bacteria to cross-contaminate the meat, which emphasizes the importance of proper hygiene and cooking practices to ensure food safety.