In which type of food are Salmonella spp. bacteria commonly found?

Salmonella spp. bacteria are commonly associated with raw poultry and raw eggs due to several factors. These bacteria can reside in the intestines of birds and other animals, and they can be present in the eggs even before they are laid. When these foods are not cooked properly, especially poultry, which should be cooked to a temperature of 165°F to ensure safety, the risk of Salmonella infection increases significantly.

In contrast, the other options do not traditionally link to common occurrences of Salmonella. Cooked meat and vegetables are usually safe from Salmonella provided they are cooked correctly. Processed cheese and dairy products have different microbial risks, focusing more on other pathogens like Listeria. Fruits and grains are generally less susceptible to Salmonella as long as they are washed and handled properly. Thus, the strong association of Salmonella with raw poultry and eggs makes this choice the most accurate answer.