What does cross-contamination refer to?

Cross-contamination specifically pertains to the transfer of harmful microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, or parasites, from one food item or surface to another. This is a critical concept in food safety, as cross-contamination can lead to foodborne illnesses if pathogens are transferred from raw foods—like raw meat or poultry—to ready-to-eat items or surfaces.

Understanding this process is essential for anyone involved in food handling, as it emphasizes the importance of maintaining separate utensils, cutting boards, and storage areas for raw and cooked foods. The goal is to keep potentially harmful bacteria isolated and prevent foodborne illnesses.

Other possible answers may touch on related concepts in food safety, such as flavor transfer or texture changes in food, but they do not encapsulate the specific issue of microbial transfer that defines cross-contamination.