FSIS considers raw, non-intact beef products adulterated if they contain E coli O157:H7.

• A. Not sure
• B. False
• C. True
• D. Not applicable

Answer: (C)

Pathogenic contamination in raw beef makes it adulterated under FSIS rules. E. coli O157:H7 is a serious foodborne pathogen, and when beef is raw and non-intact (such as ground or mechanically tenderized products), surface bacteria can be distributed throughout the product. There is no safe level of this pathogen in raw beef, and the policy treats raw non-intact beef containing E. coli O157:H7 as adulterated to protect consumers, since cooking could be insufficient if the product is already contaminated. So this statement is true.