Foods that spoil quickly are termed which of the following?

• A. Perishable
• B. Durable
• C. Nonperishable
• D. Fresh

Answer: (A)

Perishable foods are those that spoil quickly. They have a short shelf life and usually need refrigeration or special handling to stay safe to eat. Think about milk, meat, eggs, and many fresh fruits and vegetables—these spoil faster than canned or dried foods, which are designed to last longer.

Durable describes items that last a long time or resist spoilage, not foods that spoil quickly. Nonperishable foods are the opposite, lasting weeks, months, or years without spoiling, like canned goods or dried beans. Fresh merely describes state or recent harvest, not how long something will keep; some fresh items can spoil quickly if not kept properly. So, the best term for foods that spoil quickly is perishable.