Which food is commonly linked to Bacillus cereus?

Bacillus cereus is a type of bacteria that is commonly associated with foodborne illness, particularly linked to starchy foods. Cooked rice dishes are a well-known source of Bacillus cereus outbreaks, primarily due to the way rice is often prepared and stored. When rice is cooked and then left at room temperature for an extended period, the spores of the bacteria can survive the cooking process and begin to multiply. If the rice is then consumed without being properly reheated, it can cause food poisoning.

The other food options do not have the same level of association with Bacillus cereus. Raw meat is more commonly linked to different pathogens like Salmonella or E. coli, while unpasteurized dairy products are often associated with Listeria and E. coli. Soft cheeses can also be related to Listeria. Therefore, cooked rice dishes stand out as the primary food linked to Bacillus cereus, making it the correct answer to the question.