What is cross-contamination?

Cross-contamination refers to the transfer of harmful bacteria or pathogens from one food item to another, which can occur through various means such as unwashed hands, contaminated utensils, or surfaces that have not been sanitized properly. This process is particularly concerning in food preparation environments because it can lead to foodborne illnesses.

For example, if raw chicken is cut on a cutting board and the same board is used to slice vegetables without being cleaned in between, any bacteria from the chicken can be transferred to the vegetables when they come into contact with the contaminated surface. This is why understanding and preventing cross-contamination is a critical aspect of food safety practices in any kitchen setting. Proper handling, preparation, and storage of food are essential to minimizing the risk of cross-contamination, ensuring that food is safe for consumption.