What food safety practice can prevent cross-contact?

Using separate cutting boards for different food types is a crucial food safety practice that prevents cross-contact. Cross-contact occurs when allergens or bacteria from one food item transfer to another, which can pose serious health risks for individuals with food allergies or sensitivities. By utilizing separate cutting boards for different food types, particularly between raw proteins and ready-to-eat foods, the likelihood of cross-contact is significantly reduced. This practice helps maintain food integrity and safety, ensuring that the allergens or contaminants from one food do not affect another, thus safeguarding customers' health.

While washing, rinsing, and sanitizing utensils is also a vital practice for overall food safety, it specifically addresses cleanliness and contamination rather than preventing the transfer of food allergens or microorganisms between different food items.