Answer: Rule
Explanation:
FAT TOM is used in the food industry to describe the necessary conditions that need to be present for pathogens like bacteria to grow.
It is a Mnemonic device with the letters meaning the following;
- F - Food. Needs to be present to be fed on.
- A - Acidity. Conducive pH level is needed by the bacteria and this would be in the range of neutral to mildly acidic.
- T - Time. Bacteria reproduce quickly so time taken before food is preserved is crucial.
- T - Temperature. Bacteria need the right temperature to reproduce. Not too hot and not too cold.
- O - Oxygen. Bacteria need oxygen for respiration.
- M - Moisture. Water is needed by bacteria to thrive. This is why dry food lasts longer.
