What is considered cross-contamination?

Cross-contamination refers to the transfer of harmful pathogens or allergens from one surface or food item to another, which can lead to foodborne illnesses. Storing food and cleaning supplies together is a prime example of cross-contamination because it increases the risk of contaminants from the cleaning supplies coming into contact with food items.

When cleaning supplies are stored in close proximity to food, there’s a potential for spills or leaks that can directly affect the safety of the food. This is particularly concerning because cleaning supplies often contain toxic chemicals that are not safe for consumption.

In contrast, using clean utensils for all food, cooking food at the right temperature, and washing hands before food preparation are practices that promote food safety and help prevent cross-contamination. Each of these actions is aimed at maintaining a safe food environment, whereas storing food and cleaning supplies together compromises that safety.