What type of pathogenic bacteria primarily multiplies between 50 and 131 degrees Fahrenheit?

Mesophiles are a type of pathogenic bacteria that thrive in moderate temperature ranges, specifically between 50 and 131 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature range provides optimal conditions for their growth and reproduction, which can occur quickly, especially at the warmer end of this spectrum.

Understanding the significance of mesophiles in food safety is crucial; many pathogenic bacteria that can cause foodborne illnesses fall into this category. Ensuring that food is stored and cooked outside this temperature range is vital for preventing the growth of these harmful organisms.

In contrast, psychrophiles prefer much cooler temperatures, often below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, while thermophiles thrive at temperatures above 131 degrees Fahrenheit. Halophiles are adapted to high salt environments and do not specifically relate to temperature ranges associated with mesophilic growth. This differentiation highlights the importance of temperature control in food safety practices to mitigate the risk of illness.