A pregnant woman contracts toxoplasmosis. If cats are not listed as a source, which dietary source is responsible?

• A. Pork
• B. Dairy products
• C. Leafy greens
• D. Shellfish

Answer: (A)

Toxoplasma gondii is most often acquired through eating tissue cysts in undercooked meat. Among common dietary sources, pork is the best example because it frequently carries these cysts when not cooked thoroughly, and proper cooking destroys them. Dairy products are safe if pasteurized, leafy greens could be contaminated if soil or water are tainted but are not a direct meat source, and shellfish aren’t a typical reservoir. So pork stands out as the likely dietary source in this scenario. To reduce risk, cook pork to a safe internal temperature, wash produce well, and practice good kitchen hygiene and handwashing after handling raw meat.