Which of the following foods is commonly associated with shigellosis?

Shigellosis is an infectious disease caused by Shigella bacteria, which are commonly spread through contaminated food or water. The correct answer, which identifies salads and lettuces as a food commonly associated with shigellosis, aligns with significant health observations regarding how these foods can become contaminated.

Salads and lettuces, especially when prepared in common settings such as restaurants or potluck gatherings, may be contaminated through improper washing, poor personal hygiene during preparation, or cross-contamination with infected food handlers. Vegetables can also become contaminated from polluted water used for irrigation or from being washed improperly. Given that the bacteria thrive in environments that are conducive to their spread, these raw vegetables are particularly high-risk items in food safety.

Conversely, while raw chicken, raw beef, and unpasteurized milk can carry a variety of other harmful pathogens (like Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria, respectively), they are not specifically associated with shigellosis. Therefore, recognizing salads and lettuces as a primary vehicle for shigellosis emphasizes the importance of both personal hygiene and proper food handling practices to prevent foodborne illness.