Certified Professional Food Manager (CPFM) Practice Test 2026 - Free CPFM Practice Questions and Study Guide

Oxygen's role in bacterial growth varies significantly among different species. Many bacteria are classified according to their oxygen requirements: aerobic bacteria thrive in the presence of oxygen, while anaerobic bacteria grow in its absence. However, there is a significant group known as facultative anaerobes that can grow in both aerobic and anaerobic environments. Most bacteria that are responsible for foodborne illnesses belong to this group. They can utilize oxygen when it's available for more efficient energy production, but they can also switch to fermentation processes when oxygen is not present. This adaptability is crucial for their survival in various environments, especially in food products that may not always have uniform oxygen levels.

The other options do not accurately capture the complexity of bacterial growth in relation to oxygen. Some bacteria absolutely require oxygen, while others find it toxic. Hence, option C accurately reflects the capabilities of most pathogens in relation to oxygen availability.