Food Safety Quiz: Can You Identify the Contaminant?

Which is a chemical contaminant?

a. Tomato juice served in a pewter pitcher
b. Metal shavings in a can of peaches
c. Norovirus in shellfish
d. Bones in a fillet

Final Answer:

c. Norovirus in shellfish is a chemical contaminant.

Explanation:

The correct choice for a chemical contaminant among the options provided is option c, "Norovirus in shellfish." While the other options involve physical contaminants like metal shavings and bones, norovirus is a microorganism that can cause foodborne illness when present in contaminated shellfish. Norovirus is a viral pathogen that can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps when ingested. It is considered a chemical contaminant because it's a biological substance with the potential to cause illness when consumed. Therefore, option c is the most appropriate choice as a chemical contaminant in this context.