New York City Food Protection Practice Test

What parasite is typically found in under-cooked pork?

1. Ascaris lumbricoides

2. Trichinella spiralis

3. Giardia lamblia

4. Toxoplasma gondii

The correct answer is: Trichinella spiralis

Trichinella spiralis is a parasitic roundworm that is primarily associated with undercooked pork. When humans consume pork that contains larvae of this parasite, they can develop a condition known as trichinosis. This infection can lead to various symptoms, including gastrointestinal distress and muscle pain, as the larvae migrate from the intestines into muscle tissue. The lifecycle of Trichinella spiralis involves pigs as a key host. When pigs ingest food contaminated with the larvae, the larvae develop in the pig's intestines. If the pork is not cooked to the appropriate temperature, the larvae can survive and subsequently infect humans who consume the meat. Understanding food safety practices, particularly the importance of cooking pork to an internal temperature of at least 145 degrees Fahrenheit, is crucial for preventing trichinosis and other foodborne illnesses. This emphasis on proper cooking techniques is a key aspect of food protection practices, ensuring that consumers are protected from harmful parasites like Trichinella spiralis.