Bacteria enjoy foods that are neutral to slightly acidic. They will not grow in highly acidic foods like lemons and vinegar but will grow well in vegetables, meat, and some fruits Ideal for Bacterial Growth Servsafe.
Temperature needs to be considered for bacterial growth. Bacteria like temperatures between 40- and 140 degrees Fahrenheit and this is known as the Temperature Danger Zone (TDZ).
They grow even more rapidly when kept at temperatures from 70 F and 125 F, so you must limit the time foods stay at these temperatures.
Factors Affecting the Growth of Bacteria in Foods
Like the human body, bacteria depend on air, food, and shelter, meaning optimal conditions to sustain in the environment. In order to avoid pathogenic invasion of your food, you just need to know where they can thrive easily.
1. Water
Water is absolutely essential for bacteria to break down food molecules and consumes it. This is the reason that food items preserved in a damp environment easily get contaminated by bacteria. Excess water molecules present around the food, in fact, aid the bacteria for growth, such as water availability or water activity has to be avoided.
2. Oxygen
Some bacteria, like aerobes, need oxygen to thrive while anaerobes can only live without oxygen. Most foodborne microbes are facultative, which means that they can live with or without oxygen.
3. Nutrients
All bacteria need nutrients or energy sources to grow. Several nutrients include carbohydrates, protein, sugar, and starch. Dairy and milk products are usually rich in nutrients, making them ideal for bacterial growth.
4. Temperature
Temperature plays an important role in bacterial growth. A temperature ranging from 41 to 135 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal for bacteria to multiply. So, store food in the refrigerator for a longer duration to avoid bacterial growth.
