Which of the following is an example of a physical food hazard?

A physical food hazard refers to any foreign object or material that can inadvertently cause harm or injury when consumed with food. Glass shards in food fit this definition perfectly, as they can lead to serious injury or choking if ingested. This type of hazard is particularly concerning because it is tangible and can be easily identified by a consumer visually, but it requires careful attention during food preparation and service to prevent contamination.

Bacteria, while dangerous, are categorized as biological hazards because they are living microorganisms that can cause foodborne illnesses. Pesticide residues fall under chemical hazards since they involve chemical substances that can be harmful if they remain on food products. Allergens, such as nuts or gluten, also represent a different kind of risk, typically involving immune responses rather than immediate physical harm.

Therefore, glass shards are the only option that accurately represents a physical food hazard, highlighting the need for vigilance in food safety practices to avoid contamination with foreign objects.