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

A physical hazard in food refers to any foreign object that can potentially cause harm to a consumer. This includes items that are not meant to be part of the food product and can lead to injury or illness if ingested. Glass or metal fragments are prime examples of physical hazards; they can cause cuts, choking, or other injuries.

In food safety practices, it is crucial to identify and control these physical hazards to ensure consumer safety. The presence of foreign objects is often the result of improper handling, packaging, or processing of food.

Other choices, while they do pose risks to food safety, fall under different categories. Chemical residues are considered chemical hazards, microbial contaminants are biological hazards, and pests and insects are associated with pest management rather than being classified as physical hazards. Each type of hazard requires specific monitoring and control measures to ensure food safety.