Which hazard includes organisms such as fungi and viruses?

The correct answer is biological hazards because this category specifically encompasses harmful organisms that can pose risks to food safety, including bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi. Biological hazards are one of the most common causes of foodborne illnesses. These microorganisms can contaminate food at various stages of production, from growing to preparing, and can survive in food if not handled properly. Understanding biological hazards is crucial for food safety professionals because effectively controlling and preventing these risks helps protect public health.

In contrast, physical hazards refer to foreign objects that can accidentally enter food, like glass or metal fragments, which can cause injury but do not involve living organisms. Chemical hazards deal with harmful substances, such as pesticides or cleaning agents, that may contaminate food. Cross-contamination hazards involve the transfer of harmful microorganisms from one food item to another, which is a process that can lead to biological hazards but is not an organism itself. Therefore, recognizing biological hazards is essential for ensuring food safety and preventing foodborne diseases.