Topics:
Animal Refresher, Meat Science
Phase of Bacterial Growth with No Multiplication
Bacterial cells are increased in size but no multiplication takes place in:
- Lag phase — Correct Answer
- Log phase
- Stationary phase
- Decline phase
Explanation:
Correct Answer: Lag Phase
During the Lag phase, bacterial cells adjust to their new environment — they increase in size (biosynthesis of enzymes and RNA) but do not divide/multiply.
What Happens During the Lag Phase
- Cells synthesise enzymes needed to utilise available nutrients.
- DNA replication begins but cell division has not yet commenced.
- Duration varies — longer when bacteria come from an old culture or when transferred to a different medium.
Importance to Food Preservation
- The goal of all preservation techniques (chilling, vacuum packaging, antioxidants, curing) is to extend/prolong the lag phase — the longer this phase, the longer the food is safe to consume.
- Log phase = maximum danger zone for food spoilage and foodborne illness.
Growth Phase Summary
- Lag → size increases, no division
- Log → maximum multiplication
- Stationary → growth = death
- Decline → death > growth
📚 About this Topic — Animal Refresher
This multiple choice question is from Animal Refresher, Meat Science. It has 4 options with a detailed explanation of the correct answer. Practice more MCQs from Animal Refresher to strengthen your preparation.
