ServSafe Foodborne Illnesses and Allergens 4

Question 1

A guest reports a reaction with hives and swelling after eating a Caesar salad. Which ingredient is the most likely allergen trigger?

Accepted Answer

Anchovies in the dressing

Answer

Anchovies are a fish allergen and are commonly found in Caesar dressing, making them the most likely trigger.

Question 2

Which pathogen is most commonly associated with improperly canned low-acid foods such as green beans?

Accepted Answer

Clostridium botulinum

Answer

Clostridium botulinum thrives in the anaerobic, low-acid environment of improperly canned vegetables and produces a deadly toxin.

Question 3

A customer tells a server they have a tree nut allergy. Which dessert should the server be MOST cautious about serving?

Accepted Answer

Baklava

Answer

Baklava is traditionally made with walnuts or pistachios, which are tree nuts, posing a direct allergen risk.

Question 4

What is the incubation period for Norovirus gastroenteritis?

Accepted Answer

12–48 hours

Answer

Norovirus typically causes symptoms within 12 to 48 hours after exposure to contaminated food or surfaces.

Question 5

Which of the following is NOT a Big 9 allergen recognized by the FDA under FASTER Act?

Accepted Answer

Corn

Answer

Corn is not among the FDA's Big 9 allergens; the list includes milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soybeans, and sesame.

ServSafe Practice Test