Toxin Production


Some bacteria produce toxins that remain harmful even if the bacteria die (e.g., Staphylococcus aureus). Proper handling and time/temperature controls prevent toxin formation.

Related Terms

Employee Health Policy

Guidelines requiring food employees to report illnesses and follow exclusion or restriction rules...

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Pathogen Growth

The multiplication of bacteria, viruses, or parasites in food under improper time/temperature con...

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Bacterial Spores

Dormant forms of bacteria (e.g., Bacillus cereus) that survive cooking and grow when conditions b...

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Safe Cooling

Reducing food temperature from 135°F to 70°F within two hours, and 70°F to 41°F within the next f...

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Foodborne Illness Investigations

Inquiries conducted by TXDSHS after reported outbreaks; establishments must provide temperature l...

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Return/Exchange Policy for Prepared Foods

Many establishments disallow returns of hot or packaged ready-to-eat foods due to contamination r...

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Fermentation on Site

Kombucha, sauerkraut, or yogurt made in-house. TXDSHS sees this as higher risk if not properly mo...

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