Microorganisms

Overview

Microorganisms are a fundamental concept in food science, and a topic where examiners award significant marks for precision and scientific accuracy. This guide focuses on the microbiological aspects of the OCR specification, specifically the types of microorganisms, their requirements for growth, and the methods used to control them. A thorough understanding of pathogenic bacteria, the Danger Zone, and the principles of food preservation is essential for any candidate aiming for a high grade. This section will break down the core knowledge required, from the difference between spoilage and pathogenic bacteria to the specific temperature controls that ensure food safety. We will explore the mechanisms of food poisoning and how to apply this knowledge to practical, exam-style scenarios, ensuring you can write with the confidence of a senior examiner.

Key Concepts: Understanding Microorganisms

Types of Microorganisms

In food, we are concerned with three main types of microorganisms: bacteria, moulds, and yeasts. For your exam, the most critical distinction is between spoilage and pathogenic bacteria.

• Spoilage Bacteria: These alter the sensory characteristics of food, causing it to look, smell, or feel unpleasant (e.g., slime on meat, sour milk). While they ruin food quality, they are not typically the cause of illness.
• Pathogenic Bacteria: These are the disease-causing microorganisms that lead to food poisoning. Crucially, they often do not produce any noticeable change in the food's appearance, taste, or smell. This is why a food can appear perfectly safe but still be dangerous.

Conditions for Bacterial Growth: FATTOM

Examiners expect you to know the six conditions that support bacterial multiplication. The acronym FATTOM is an essential memory hook.

• F - Food: Bacteria thrive on high-protein and high-carbohydrate foods like meat, poultry, dairy, and cooked rice.
• A - Acidity (pH): Most bacteria prefer a neutral to slightly acidic environment, with a pH between 4.5 and 7.5.
• T - Time: In ideal conditions, bacteria can double in number every 10-20 minutes through a process called binary fission. Leaving food in the Danger Zone for more than 2 hours poses a significant risk.
• T - Temperature: This is the most critical factor. Bacteria multiply rapidly within the Danger Zone (5°C to 63°C).
• O - Oxygen: Bacterial oxygen needs vary. Aerobic bacteria require oxygen, anaerobic bacteria grow without it, and facultative anaerobes can adapt to either condition.
• M - Moisture: Bacteria need water to grow. This is measured as Water Activity (aw), and most pathogens require an aw of 0.85 or higher.

Temperature Control: The Golden Rule

Temperature is the most effective tool for controlling bacterial growth. You must know these specific temperatures for the exam.

• Freezer (-18°C): Freezing does not kill bacteria; it makes them dormant and stops them from multiplying.
• Fridge (0°C - 5°C): Refrigeration significantly slows down bacterial multiplication.
• Danger Zone (5°C - 63°C): The ideal temperature range for rapid bacterial growth. Food must be kept out of this zone.
• Safe Hot Holding (63°C+): Holding food above this temperature prevents the growth of bacteria.
• Core Cooking Temperature (75°C): Cooking food to a core temperature of 75°C for at least 2 minutes will kill most pathogenic bacteria.

Key Pathogens You Must Know

Candidates are awarded marks for naming specific pathogens and linking them to food sources and symptoms.