What is cross-contamination?

Cross-contamination primarily refers to the transfer of harmful bacteria from one food item to another, which can occur during food preparation, cooking, or serving. This can happen in various ways, such as using the same cutting board for raw meats and vegetables without proper cleaning in between or placing cooked food on a plate that previously held raw food. This transfer can lead to foodborne illnesses, as the bacteria can multiply and create unsafe conditions for consumption.

While mixing ingredients, storing foods in the same container, or cooking food together may involve interactions between different food items, they don't necessarily result in the transfer of harmful bacteria unless safe practices are not followed. It is crucial for food safety protocols to prevent cross-contamination to protect customers and ensure the safety of the food served.