Preventing cross-contamination

• What is cross-contamination in food safety?

  It is the process by which a substance that is dirty or harmful spreads from one place to another.
• How does cross-contamination typically occur in food production?

  It often involves the transfer of bacteria from contaminated foods to ready-to-eat foods.
• What is an example of direct contact that can lead to cross-contamination?

  Raw meat touching cooked meat.
• What is an example of indirect contact that can cause cross-contamination?

  The juice from a raw chicken dripping onto ready-to-eat food.
• What should be assumed about all sources of bacteria in food safety?

  All sources of bacteria are contaminated with harmful bacteria.
• What are the key terms related to cross-contamination?

  • Cross-contamination: The process by which a substance that is dirty or harmful spreads from one place to another.
  • Ready-to-eat foods: Foods that require no further cooking or reheating.
• What approach should be used to prevent cross-contamination in the kitchen?

  A 'clean as you go' approach should be used.
• What can cause food-induced ill health?

  Pathogenic bacteria, allergens, foods causing intolerances, and chemicals.
• Why is preventing the spread of harmful substances onto food important?

  Exposure to certain food allergens can cause death for some people.
• How does the use of colour coding in the kitchen help prevent cross-contamination?

  Different types of food are prepared on different-coloured chopping boards.
• What should be done to protect cooked and ready-to-eat food from contamination?

  It should be protected from contact with raw foods.
• What happens to bacteria in raw food once it has been cooked?

  Most of them are destroyed.
• What is the purpose of using purple chopping boards in the kitchen?

  They are used to prepare foods for people avoiding allergens such as wheat and nuts.
• What is a common method to help prevent cross-contamination in kitchens?

  Using colour-coded chopping boards.
• How can taps help prevent cross-contamination?

  By ensuring hands are washed properly after handling raw foods.