Viruses and parasites can be transported by which of the following?

Viruses and parasites can be effectively transported through contaminated food and water. This mode of transmission is particularly significant in food safety, as it illustrates how pathogens can enter the food chain. Contaminated water can serve as a breeding ground for certain parasites and can also carry viral contamination, which can then be transmitted to individuals through ingestion.

In the environment of a food service establishment like Starbucks, ensuring that food and beverages are prepared with safe, uncontaminated water and are stored correctly is crucial to preventing outbreaks of foodborne illness. Proper hygiene practices, including washing hands and surfaces, as well as maintaining proper food storage and handling procedures, are essential to mitigate the risk of viruses and parasites being transmitted via contaminated food and water.

Understanding this direct link between contamination and transmission highlights the importance of implementing rigorous food safety protocols consistently, reinforcing why option B stands out as the correct answer in this context.