Which statement about botulism is correct?

• A. It is caused by a preformed toxin produced in the intestinal tract.
• B. It is caused by ingesting a preformed toxin in contaminated food and can be prevented by boiling food.
• C. It is not preventable by cooking.
• D. It is caused by spores germinating in the stomach.

Answer: (B)

Botulism arises when a preformed botulinum toxin is present in contaminated food. The toxin is heat-labile, so thorough heating or boiling can destroy it before ingestion, preventing illness. This makes the statement that the illness is caused by ingesting a preformed toxin in contaminated food and can be prevented by boiling the food the best fit. In contrast, the toxin is not typically produced inside the stomach after ingestion, and while spores can be present, illness is due to toxin in the food, not spores germinating in the stomach. Cooking can inactivate the toxin, which is why proper heating is a key preventive measure.