What is an example of a chemical hazard?

The correct choice is prescription medicine as an example of a chemical hazard. Chemical hazards in food safety refer to harmful substances that can contaminate food, potentially leading to illness or injury when consumed. Prescription medicines can contaminate food products either through improper handling, unintentional addition, or cross-contamination, posing risks to consumers, especially those with allergies or sensitivities.

In contrast, the other choices provided are biological hazards. Viruses can cause foodborne illnesses, parasites are organisms that live on or in a host and can be transmitted through food, and fungi, such as molds, can spoil food and also produce toxins. These represent different categories of hazards that are primarily biological rather than chemical in nature. Understanding the distinctions between chemical and biological hazards is crucial for effective food safety management.