Which term describes the resistant structures formed by certain bacteria such as Clostridium botulinum?

The term that describes the resistant structures formed by certain bacteria, including Clostridium botulinum, is "spore." Spores are highly resilient and can withstand extreme conditions, such as high temperatures and desiccation. They serve as a survival mechanism for bacteria, allowing them to endure unfavorable environmental conditions until they are in a more suitable environment for growth.

When conditions become more favorable, the spore can germinate and develop into a vegetative cell, which is the active form of a bacterium that is metabolically active and capable of growth and reproduction. This distinction is critical in food safety, particularly in the context of HACCP, as spores can survive cooking processes that would typically kill vegetative cells, posing a significant risk for contamination.

Understanding the nature of spores is essential for implementing effective control measures in food safety management systems to prevent outbreaks associated with spore-forming bacteria.