Select the option that is true regarding the following two statements labelled Assertion and Reason. Assertion (A): A process called ‘Botulinum cook’ (121°C/3 min) is designed for canned foods with a low acid content and is given to inactivate the spores of Clostridium botulinum. Reason (R): Clostridium botulinum is anaerobic and can form spores which remain viable for long periods of time even if environmental conditions are absolutely unfavorable.
Options:

Correct option is A

Assertion is true: The term ‘Botulinum cook’ refers to a thermal processing method used in the canning industry, specifically for low-acid foods (pH > 4.6) such as meats, vegetables, and seafood. The standard treatment is 121°C for 3 minutes, equivalent to 12 log reductions (12D value) of Clostridium botulinum spores, ensuring their inactivation.
Reason is also true: Clostridium botulinum is an anaerobic, Gram-positive, spore-forming bacterium. Its spores are extremely heat-resistant and can survive for long periods under harsh environmental conditions. In the absence of oxygen, in improperly processed canned foods, these spores can germinate and produce botulinum toxin, a lethal neurotoxin.
Since the Reason accurately explains why the Botulinum cook is necessary, the correct answer is Option (a).