Which of the following conditions does NOT assist in bacterial multiplication?

Bacteria thrive in environments that provide ideal conditions for growth, commonly referred to as the "danger zone" for food safety, which is typically between 5°C and 60°C. Warmth, such as temperatures found in this range, encourages bacterial multiplication. Additionally, humidity plays a critical role because bacteria require moisture to grow; dry conditions can impede their development. Darkness can also promote bacterial growth since many bacteria prefer to grow away from light, which can be harmful.

Cold conditions, on the other hand, are detrimental to bacterial multiplication. Temperatures below 5°C generally slow down or inhibit the growth of bacteria and can even lead to their death in extreme cases. By keeping food in cold environments, such as refrigeration, it helps to control bacterial growth effectively, which is crucial for food safety.