Food Safety Certification Practice Test

What is a key practice to prevent cross-contamination of foods?

1. Storing all foods in the same area

2. Keeping raw and cooked food separate

3. Using the same cutting board for all food items

4. Washing hands only after handling raw meat

The correct answer is: Keeping raw and cooked food separate

Keeping raw and cooked food separate is crucial for preventing cross-contamination. When raw foods, particularly meats, come into contact with cooked foods or ready-to-eat items, they can transfer harmful bacteria and pathogens that can lead to foodborne illnesses. This practice involves not only storing raw and cooked foods separately but also using different utensils, cutting boards, and plates to ensure that there is no direct or indirect transfer of contaminants. In a food safety context, using proper techniques for storage, preparation, and cooking can significantly reduce the risk of contamination. It is important to have designated areas and tools for handling raw foods, which can include color-coded cutting boards or specific zones in refrigerators to mitigate the risk of cross-contamination effectively.