What is the definition of Food Safety?

• A. The scientific discipline describing the handling, preparation, and storage of food to prevent foodborne illness.
• B. The study of nutrient content in meals.
• C. The management of food retail marketing.
• D. The distribution of food aid.

Answer: (A)

Food safety is the science and set of practices that prevent foodborne illness by ensuring foods are handled, prepared, and stored in ways that keep them safe to eat. This means controlling how food is obtained, cleaned, cooked to the right temperatures, cooled promptly, and stored properly to prevent growth of pathogens and cross-contamination. It covers the whole journey from farm or supplier to the table, including clean equipment, personal hygiene, and proper time-temperature control.

The description that fits this definition focuses on those handling, preparation, and storage steps to keep food safe, which is why it’s the best choice. The other options describe nutrition (nutrient content), marketing, or food aid logistics, which are important topics but not about preventing illness through safe practices.