Health Law

Food and Pregnancy - Health and Safety Quiz

By David Babcock

The Pregnancy Health Information Line, at UCSD, has prepared a quiz to educate pregnant women on avoiding foodborne illness.  Thanks to Sam McManis of McClatchy Newspapers for passing it on.  Here is the quiz with answers at the bottom - see how you do.

1. Alcohol, of course, is not recommended for pregnant women. Which of the following holiday treats does not contain hidden alcohol?
a) rum balls
b) eggnog
c) spiced rum
d) cranberry relish
 

2. Why are soft cheeses, such as Brie, feta and Camembert, a concern for pregnant women?
a) Digestion is hindered by an adverse reaction with the placental lining of the uterus.
b) Unpasteurized milk can contain the bacteria listeria monocytogenes.
c) The high saturated fat content of the cheese can lead to early-onset obesity for the fetus.

d) Consumption leads the pregnant woman to crave pickles to go with the cheese.
 

3. What are among the effects on a developing baby of the bacteria called listeria monocytogenes?
a) miscarriage
b) uterine infection
c) premature labor
d) all of the above
 

4. Hot dogs can also be breeding grounds for listeria monocytogenes. What do the experts say to do to better ensure a hot dog is safe to eat?
a) Reheat until steaming hot
b) Heat, then chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes
c) Grind up and heat
d) Toss it in the garbage disposal
 

5. Large predator fish (tuna, shark, tilefish, king mackerel) contain traces of methylmercury, which can lead to birth defects such as cerebral palsy, mental retardation and blindness. Researchers recommend consuming no more than what amount?
a) 5 ounces a day
b) 12 ounces a week
c) 1 pound per trimester
d) none at all
 

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ANSWERS: 1: d; 2: b; 3: d; 4: a; 5: b

I hope you did well - pass it on.

Full post as published by Food Poison Blog on December 09, 2010 (boomark / email).