Which of the following foods was not associated with a major outbreak in the material?

• A. Cantaloupe
• B. Fenugreek sprouts
• C. Strawberries
• D. Lettuce

Answer: (D)

Outbreaks from fresh produce often arise when the growing, harvesting, and handling steps create conditions that let pathogens persist and spread. In the material you studied, three foods were linked to major outbreaks because of how they’re grown or processed and how easily contamination can spread along the supply chain.

Cantaloupe has a rough, ribbed rind with crevices that can shelter bacteria. If a contaminated source gets into the flesh through the cutting process or during packing, the contamination can spread widely, leading to a large outbreak as the fruit is consumed across many states.

Fenugreek sprouts are grown in warm, moist conditions that promote rapid bacterial growth. Seeds used to sprout can be contaminated, and the sprouting process can amplify even small amounts of contamination, resulting in a major outbreak that traces back to sprouts.

Strawberries, like other delicate fruits, can be exposed to pathogens in fields, during picking, or in packing facilities. Because they’re widely distributed and consumed as fresh fruit, contamination can lead to a large, multi-region outbreak.

Lettuce, in the material, did not appear as a food linked to a major outbreak, unlike the other three. Therefore, it is the option that fits “not associated with a major outbreak” in this context.