Question

Given below are two statements, one is labelled as Assertion (A) and other one labelled as Reason (R).
Assertion (A) : Bacillus cereus is a pathogenic bacterium
Reason (R) : As it causes foodborne diseases classified by the International Commission on Microbiological Specifications for Foods under moderate hazard.

• A. Both A and R are false.
• B. Only A is true.
• C. A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.
• D. A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.

Hint:

ICMSF categorizes hazards as severe (e.g., Clostridium botulinum), moderate with potential for extensive spread (e.g., Salmonella), or moderate with limited spread (e.g., Bacillus cereus).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Foodborne pathogens are classified into hazard groups by bodies like ICMSF based on the severity of the diseases they cause and the likelihood of transmission.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- Assertion (A) is true: Bacillus cereus is a well-known foodborne pathogen that produces diarrheal and emetic toxins.
- Reason (R) is true: According to the International Commission on Microbiological Specifications for Foods (ICMSF), Bacillus cereus is classified as a "Moderate Hazard with limited spread" because it typically causes mild to moderate, self-limiting foodborne illnesses.
This biological hazard classification explains why it is officially categorized as a foodborne pathogen.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Since both statements are true and Reason (R) correctly explains Assertion (A), the correct option is (D).