How does cross-contamination occur?

Cross-contamination occurs when harmful substances, such as bacteria or other pathogens, are transferred from one food item to another. This often happens when raw foods, such as meat or eggs, come into contact with ready-to-eat foods, like salads or fruit. Even a small amount of these harmful substances can lead to foodborne illnesses if they are consumed.

Understanding this process is crucial for food safety, as it highlights the importance of keeping raw and cooked foods separate, using different utensils for different types of food, and maintaining cleanliness in food preparation areas. Cooking methods, utensils, and eating environments do contribute to overall food hygiene, but they are not the primary mechanisms by which cross-contamination occurs.