Which one of the following foods is NOT classified as a Potentially Hazardous Food?

Dried beans are not classified as a Potentially Hazardous Food (PHF) because they have low moisture content when dried, which inhibits the growth of harmful microorganisms. Potentially Hazardous Foods are typically those that support rapid growth of pathogens due to their moisture, pH, and nutrient levels.

Cooked rice, milk, and fish are all considered PHFs because they are moist, protein-rich, and require temperature control to prevent the growth of bacteria. Cooked rice can harbor Bacillus cereus if left at room temperature for too long, milk provides an excellent environment for pathogens if not kept refrigerated, and fish can spoil quickly due to its high protein content.

Therefore, recognizing the characteristics of different food items helps in identifying which foods pose higher risks for foodborne illnesses, establishing why dried beans do not fall under the same category as the other options listed.