A Stool Sample from the Patient Is Cultured, and Confirms

A stool sample from the patient is cultured, and confirms the presence of Clostridium botulinum. In addition, the stool sample as well as leftover stew and green beans are tested for botulinum toxin—toxin is present in the green beans and in the stool sample, but not in the stew. These results confirm the diagnosis of foodborne botulism. You are one of the RNs taking care of the patient—he remains in the hospital for several weeks, before being discharged.
-Please select the statement that does NOT apply to botulism.

A) The causative agent is Clostridium botulinum.
B) Clostridium endospores can germinate in food with an acidic pH.
C) Vegetative Clostridium cells release botulinum toxin, a potent neurotoxin.
D) The causative agent is an obligate anaerobe.
E) Boiling home-canned foods for 10 minutes will destroy any botulinum toxin present.