Which acronym lists the factors that affect microbial growth?

• A. HACCP
• B. FATTOM
• C. SRM
• D. IPP

Answer: (B)

Microbial growth in foods is governed by a specific set of factors that describe how microbes grow and multiply. The acronym that lists these six factors is FATTOM: Food provides nutrients; Acidity (pH) influences whether microbes can grow; Time determines how long microbes have to multiply; Temperature sets the rate of growth and the range in which organisms can thrive; Oxygen indicates whether the organism requires air or can grow without it; Moisture (water activity) affects microbial metabolism. By manipulating any of these factors—like cooking to safe temperatures, reducing water activity, or limiting the time foods spend in the danger zone—you limit growth and reduce the risk of foodborne illness. Other terms describe safety systems or materials rather than growth factors, so they don’t enumerate the factors that influence microbial growth.