Which of the following is an example of a physical contaminant?

Which of the following is an example of a physical contaminant?

• A. Hair
• B. Bacteria
• C. Pesticide
• D. Mold

Answer: (A)

Physical contaminants are foreign objects you can see or feel in food. Hair fits this category because it’s a tangible item that can be seen in the product and isn’t part of the food itself. Bacteria are living organisms, so contamination by them is biological. Pesticide residues are chemical contaminants, involving chemicals rather than physical objects. Mold is a fungal growth, also a biological contaminant. Since the question asks for a physical contaminant, hair is the best example.

Physical contaminants are foreign objects you can see or feel in food. Hair fits this category because it’s a tangible item that can be seen in the product and isn’t part of the food itself. Bacteria are living organisms, so contamination by them is biological. Pesticide residues are chemical contaminants, involving chemicals rather than physical objects. Mold is a fungal growth, also a biological contaminant. Since the question asks for a physical contaminant, hair is the best example.