Which of the following is an example of physical contamination?

• A. Bacteria in undercooked poultry.
• B. Pesticide residue on produce.
• C. A food additive that enhances flavor.
• D. A small shard of glass in soup.

Answer: (D)

Physical contamination is when a foreign object gets into food, something tangible that doesn’t belong there and could cause harm if eaten. A small shard of glass in soup is a prime example because it’s a physical object that isn’t part of the food and could injure someone. By contrast, bacteria in undercooked poultry is biological contamination—microscopic organisms that can make you sick. Pesticide residue on produce is chemical contamination—unwanted chemicals. A food additive that enhances flavor is legitimately added ingredient, not contamination. Understanding this helps focus on practical prevention, like keeping equipment intact, inspecting foods for foreign objects, and following proper handling and cleaning procedures to stop foreign objects from entering the food.