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FAT TOM means food, acidity, temperature, time oxygen and moisture. The 6 Conditions Pathogens Need to Grow (FAT TOM): The acronym FAT TOM helps remember the six factors that support bacterial growth: Letter Factor Explanation F Food Pathogens thrive on foods that are high in protein or moisture, like meat, poultry, dairy, cooked rice, and eggs (also called TCS foods – Time/Temperature Control for Safety). A Acidity Bacteria grow best in foods with low acidity (pH between 4.6 and 7.5). They don't grow well in highly acidic foods like citrus or vinegar. T Time The longer food stays in the temperature danger zone, the more time pathogens have to multiply. T Temperature Pathogens grow fastest between 40°F and 140°F (4°C – 60°C) – known as the temperature danger zone. O Oxygen Some bacteria need oxygen to grow (aerobic), while others grow without it (anaerobic). Many foods provide the right oxygen level for common pathogens. M Moisture High moisture levels (measured as water activity, or aw) support bacterial growth. Foods with aw above 0.85 are especially at risk.