Which of these foods is least likely to support the rapid growth of bacteria?

Dried fruits are least likely to support the rapid growth of bacteria due to their low moisture content. The drying process removes most of the water from the fruit, which is essential for bacterial growth. Bacteria thrive in moist environments, typically requiring a water activity level above 0.85 to grow effectively. Since dried fruits have a much lower water activity level, they create an inhospitable environment for bacteria.

In contrast, cooked rice, raw ground meat, and cooked pasta contain higher moisture levels, making them more susceptible to bacterial growth if they are not stored properly. Cooked rice and cooked pasta can retain moisture and provide a nutrient-rich environment for bacteria, while raw ground meat is particularly prone to rapid bacterial growth due to its protein content and moisture levels. Therefore, dried fruits stand out as the safest option in terms of inhibiting bacterial proliferation.