What is cross-contamination?

Cross-contamination refers specifically to the transfer of harmful bacteria or pathogens from one food item to another. This can occur through direct contact or through surfaces and utensils that have been contaminated. For example, if raw meat comes into contact with vegetables that are going to be eaten without cooking, harmful bacteria from the meat can be transferred to the vegetables, posing a health risk if consumed.

Understanding this concept is crucial for food safety as it emphasizes the importance of keeping raw and cooked foods separate, using different utensils for different types of food, and maintaining clean surfaces to prevent the spread of contaminants. This helps to protect consumers from foodborne illnesses, which can arise from such transfers of pathogens.

The other choices, while related to food handling, do not accurately define cross-contamination as it is understood in food safety practices. The focus on harmful bacteria in the correct answer highlights the specific nature of the risk involved in cross-contamination.