Basic Food Safety- Chapter 4 'Avoiding Cross Contamination' (English)

### **Basic Food Safety: Chapter 4 - Avoiding Cross-Contamination**

---

#### **What is Cross-Contamination?**
Cross-contamination occurs when harmful bacteria or allergens transfer from one surface, food, or object to another. It is a leading cause of foodborne illness.

#### **Types of Cross-Contamination**
1. **Food-to-Food:** For example, raw meat juices dripping onto ready-to-eat foods.
2. **Equipment-to-Food:** Using the same cutting board or utensils for raw and cooked foods without proper cleaning.
3. **Person-to-Food:** Contaminants from hands, clothing, or personal items transferring to food.

---

#### **Preventing Cross-Contamination**
**1. Separate Raw and Cooked Foods**
- Store raw meat, poultry, and seafood below ready-to-eat foods in refrigerators.
- Use separate cutting boards, knives, and utensils for raw and cooked foods.

**2. Clean and Sanitize Surfaces**
- Wash cutting boards, utensils, and countertops with hot, soapy water after handling raw foods.
- Sanitize tools and surfaces regularly using a food-safe sanitizer.

**3. Practice Good Personal Hygiene**
- Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before and after handling food.
- Avoid preparing food when sick or with open wounds.

**4. Use Proper Storage Techniques**
- Keep raw foods in sealed containers to prevent leakage.
- Label and date foods to reduce confusion about handling and storage.

**5. Avoid Cross-Contact (for Allergens)**
- Use dedicated equipment for allergen-specific foods.
- Clearly label allergen-free and allergen-containing items to avoid accidental mixing.

---

#### **Key Tips for Equipment Use**
- **Color-Coded Tools:** Use color-coded cutting boards (e.g., red for raw meat, green for vegetables).
- **Separate Cleaning Supplies:** Use separate sponges or cleaning cloths for raw and ready-to-eat areas.
- **Disposable Gloves:** Change gloves between tasks, especially after handling raw foods.

---

#### **Proper Food Handling Practices**
- Use clean, dry towels for food handling; avoid reusing towels contaminated with raw food juices.
- Transport raw and ready-to-eat foods in separate containers when catering or moving items.

---

#### **Why Avoiding Cross-Contamination is Critical**
Preventing cross-contamination ensures food is safe to eat, protects vulnerable populations (children, elderly, and immunocompromised individuals), and reduces the risk of foodborne illnesses.

By maintaining strict hygiene and organization, cross-contamination can be effectively minimized. Let me know if you'd like further clarification on any section!