Which statement about molds and yeasts is true?

• A. They are the primary cause of meat and poultry related foodborne illnesses.
• B. They are not usually responsible for meat or poultry related foodborne illnesses.
• C. They are always harmful to food safety.
• D. They are classified as bacteria.

Answer: (B)

Molds and yeasts are fungi that mainly affect meat and poultry through spoilage rather than causing the illnesses people commonly get from these foods. In meat and poultry, the usual foodborne illness culprits are bacteria such as Salmonella, Campylobacter, E. coli, and Listeria, not molds or yeasts. While some molds and yeasts can grow on foods and, in some cases, produce toxins, they are not the typical drivers of meat- or poultry-related illness, and they are not bacteria (they belong to a different kingdom). So the statement that they are not usually responsible for these illnesses is the best match.