TheoryServSafe Allergens Test Prep Practice Questions
Free ServSafe Allergens Test Prep practice questions with answers and plain-English explanations. Browse the PDF, video and online mock test.
ServSafe Allergens Test Prep Questions
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Q1Which of the following is NOT one of the Big 9 allergens?
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✓ Correct answer: Mustard
The Big 9 allergens are milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soybeans, and sesame. Mustard is not part of the Big 9 allergens required to be labeled by FDA regulations.
Q2What is the difference between a food allergy and food intolerance?
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✓ Correct answer: A food allergy involves the immune system and can be life-threatening
A food allergy involves the immune system and can be life-threatening, while a food intolerance affects the digestive system and causes discomfort but is not life-threatening.
Q3What happens during an allergic reaction to food?
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✓ Correct answer: The immune system identifies a food protein as harmful and releases chemicals like histamine
During an allergic reaction, the immune system identifies a food protein as harmful and releases chemicals like histamine, causing symptoms that can range from mild to severe.
Q4What is cross-contact in relation to food allergens?
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✓ Correct answer: When an allergen-free food touches or is exposed to a food allergen
Cross-contact occurs when an allergen-free food touches or is exposed to a food allergen, transferring proteins that can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Q5How is cross-contact different from cross-contamination?
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✓ Correct answer: Cross-contact involves allergen transfer, while cross-contamination involves bacteria transfer
Cross-contact involves allergen protein transfer that can cause allergic reactions, while cross-contamination involves harmful bacteria transfer that can cause foodborne illness.
Q6Which of the following is true about anaphylaxis?
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✓ Correct answer: It is a severe allergic reaction that can be life-threatening and requires immediate emergency treatment
Anaphylaxis is a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that can involve multiple body systems simultaneously and requires immediate emergency treatment.
Q7According to FDA labeling regulations, how must major food allergens be identified on packaged foods?
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✓ Correct answer: In plain language either in the ingredient list or in a separate "Contains" statement
FDA regulations require major food allergens to be clearly listed in plain language either in the ingredient list or in a separate "Contains" statement immediately following the ingredient list.
Q8Which allergen was added most recently to the list of major food allergens requiring labeling?
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✓ Correct answer: Sesame
Sesame was added as the 9th major food allergen through the FASTER Act, which went into effect on January 1, 2023, requiring sesame to be clearly labeled on packaged foods.
Q9Which of the following factors can affect the severity of an allergic reaction?
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✓ Correct answer: The amount of allergen consumed
The amount of allergen consumed can directly affect the severity of an allergic reaction, although some individuals may react severely even to trace amounts.
Q10Which of the following is NOT a common symptom of food allergies?
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✓ Correct answer: Fever
Fever is not a common symptom of food allergies. Common symptoms include hives, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing, vomiting, and diarrhea.
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