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An outbreak of food poisoning was recorded in an urban settlement. The illness was diagnosed as botulism on the grounds of clinical presentations. What foodstuffs should be chosen for analysis in the first place in order to confirm the diagnosis?

  • A. Tinned food
  • B. Potatoes
  • C. Pasteurized milk
  • D. Boiled meat
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Tinned food. Botulism is often caused by the botulinum toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum, which can be present in improperly canned foods. Analyzing tinned food allows for direct detection of the toxin or bacteria, confirming the diagnosis. Potatoes, pasteurized milk, and boiled meat are less likely sources of botulism compared to tinned food, making them less suitable for initial analysis in this case.