What does the term 'adulterated food' refer to under MCL 750.397a?

The term 'adulterated food' under MCL 750.397a specifically refers to food that contains harmful objects or substances with the intent to cause harm. This legal definition emphasizes the seriousness of introducing dangerous contaminants into food products, whether these contaminants are physical, like shards of glass, or chemical, like toxic substances. The law aims to protect consumers from products that have been deliberately tainted, reflecting an intention to compromise their health and safety.

Other choices, such as food that is expired and unfit for consumption, food stored in improper conditions, or food that does not meet nutritional standards, may relate to different regulations regarding food safety and quality but do not encompass the specific intent to harm that characterizes the illegal adulteration described in MCL 750.397a. These aspects focus more on food safety practices rather than the intent behind the introduction of harmful elements.