Separate: Don’t Cross-Contaminate

What is Cross-Contamination?

Cross-contamination occurs when harmful microorganisms (germs) spread to food.

A picture of  two cutting boards being used. One for cutting raw meat and the other for vegetables.

How does cross-contamination happen?

Cross-contamination happens in three ways:

1. Food-to-Food

When raw meat or its juices comes in contact with ready-to-eat foods (i.e. deli meats, cheese, washed fruit, salad, cooked food).

2. Equipment-to-Food

When the same equipment is used with raw meat and ready-to-eat food without being cleaned and sanitized.

3. People-to-Food

When people touch raw meat and do not wash their hands before touching ready-to-eat food.

How can you prevent cross-contamination?

  • Be sure to refrigerate right.
  • Use separate cutting boards for raw meat and cooked or ready-to-eat foods.
  • Always wash and sanitize all cooking and preparation equipment(i.e. cutting boards, knives, slicer equipment) after each use.
  • Wash your hands before and after preparing food.