Match the group of spoilage organisms in Column I with the lowest a_w (water activity) values permitting their growth from Column II:

Column I	Column II
1. Osmophilic yeast	A. 0.80
2. Many bacteria	B. 0.91
3. Many molds	C. 0.75
4. Halophilic bacteria	D. 0.60

Options:

Correct option is B

Water activity (a_w) is a critical factor influencing microbial growth in food products. Microorganisms have minimum a_w thresholds below which they cannot grow.
Let's match each organism group with its minimum a_w requirement:
1. Osmophilic yeasts:
These thrive in high sugar, low moisture environments.
Can grow at very low a_w values, as low as 0.60.
Match: D (0.60)
2. Many bacteria:
Require higher water activity to grow.
Most common spoilage bacteria need a_w of at least 0.91.
Match: B (0.91)
3. Many molds:
More tolerant to low moisture than bacteria.
Can grow at a_w as low as 0.80 or even lower for xerophilic molds, but many common molds start at 0.80.
Match: A (0.80)
4. Halophilic bacteria:
These salt-loving microbes can grow in low water activity due to high salt concentrations.
Many can grow at a_w of around 0.75.
Match: C (0.75)
Therefore, the correct matching is: 1-D, 2-B, 3-A, 4-C
Thus, the correct answer is Option (b).