A biological hazard is best described as which of the following?

• A. A non-living chemical hazard
• B. A living organism that is a toxic infectious agent to humans
• C. A physical contaminant
• D. A nutrient deficiency

Answer: (B)

Biological hazards come from living organisms or the toxins they can produce that can cause illness in people. In foods, this includes bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi, along with any toxins these organisms may generate. The option that describes a living organism capable of causing infection or disease in humans best fits this idea, since it identifies the source as a living infectious agent that can harm people. The other options point to chemical hazards (non-living substances), physical hazards (inanimate contaminants like glass or metal), or nutrient issues (deficiencies), none of which describe living infectious agents.