Why is it important to keep raw and cooked foods separate?

Keeping raw and cooked foods separate is essential to prevent cross-contamination, which is a primary concern in food safety. Raw foods, particularly meats, can harbor harmful bacteria and pathogens that can contaminate cooked foods if they come into contact. When cooked foods are contaminated, they pose a risk of foodborne illnesses to anyone consuming them.

By keeping raw and cooked foods separated, you are effectively minimizing the risk of transferring harmful microorganisms from the raw food to the ready-to-eat items. This practice is crucial in any food handling or preparation environment, including fast-food settings like McDonald's, where maintaining a high standard of hygiene is vital for customer safety and health.