Cracker Barrel Food Handler Certificate Practice Exam 2025 - Free Food Handler Practice Questions and Study Guide

An allergen is defined as a substance that can cause an allergic reaction in some people. When individuals who are sensitive to certain substances come into contact with or consume them, their immune systems react adversely, leading to a variety of symptoms that can range from mild to severe. Common allergens include certain foods like peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, eggs, milk, soy, and wheat, as well as environmental factors like pollen, pet dander, and dust mites.

The other options represent concepts that are unrelated to allergens. Preservatives are substances added to food to prevent spoilage and extend shelf life, while food preparation methods and cooking techniques refer to the various ways in which food is processed and prepared for consumption. These do not inherently involve immune reactions or sensitivities as allergens do, underscoring the unique role that allergens play in food safety and health considerations.