What is the best way to prevent cross-contamination?

Keeping raw and cooked foods separate is fundamental in preventing cross-contamination in food handling. This practice minimizes the risk of harmful bacteria from raw foods, especially meats and seafood, transferring to cooked foods that are ready to eat. By maintaining separation, you significantly lower the chances of foodborne illnesses caused by pathogens that thrive in raw products and can contaminate safe-to-eat items.

For instance, if raw chicken juices come into contact with vegetables meant to be eaten raw, it can lead to serious health risks. Therefore, having designated areas, utensils, and storage for different food types plays a crucial role in safe food handling. This separation practice is a cornerstone of food safety protocols in both home kitchens and professional food service environments, ensuring the health and safety of consumers.