Question

Which bacterium is capable of surviving the Holder method of pasteurization?

• A. Mycobacterium tuberculosis
• B. Coxiella burnetii
• C. Salmonella typhi
• D. Brucella abortus

Hint:

{Coxiella burnetii} is the most heat-resistant non-spore-forming pathogen in milk and is used to determine pasteurization standards.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Concept: Pasteurization is a heat treatment process used to destroy pathogenic microorganisms in milk and other liquids. The Holder method of pasteurization involves heating milk to 63°C for 30 minutes. Among milk-borne pathogens, Coxiella burnetii, the causative agent of Q fever, is one of the most heat-resistant non-spore-forming bacteria. Pasteurization standards were designed specifically to ensure the destruction of this organism.
Step 1: Identify the bacterium associated with resistance to pasteurization.

• Mycobacterium tuberculosis – Destroyed by pasteurization.
• Coxiella burnetii – Highly heat-resistant and used as the standard for pasteurization effectiveness.
• Salmonella typhi – Destroyed by pasteurization.
• Brucella abortus – Destroyed by pasteurization.

Thus, the bacterium capable of surviving inadequate Holder pasteurization conditions is Coxiella burnetii.