Which of the following is an example of a ready-to-eat food?

Cut watermelon is a prime example of a ready-to-eat food because it has been prepped and is safe to consume without any further cooking. Ready-to-eat foods are those that can be eaten directly without needing additional preparation, heating, or cooking to eliminate potential pathogens.

In the case of cut watermelon, it is typically washed before cutting, making it suitable for immediate consumption. Proper handling and storage are essential to ensure its safety once it has been cut, but it is inherently ready for eating as is.

The other items mentioned do not fall into the ready-to-eat category because they require further cooking or preparation. Raw chicken poses a risk for foodborne illness unless it is cooked thoroughly, canned vegetables, while prepared, may require heating for the best taste and safety, and uncooked pasta must be boiled before consumption. Thus, the cut watermelon stands out as the only choice that fits the definition of ready-to-eat food.