Cross-Contamination
What is cross-contamination?
Cross-contamination is the transfer of harmful bacteria from one food, surface, or utensil to another.
What is the temperature “danger zone”?
The danger zone is the temperature range where bacteria grow quickly. 40 - 140
Why is handwashing important before food preparation?
It removes bacteria that could contaminate food.
True or False: Gloves replace the need for handwashing.
False — hands must be washed before wearing gloves.
You drop cooked food on the floor. What should you do?
Throw it away to prevent contamination.
Why should raw meat be kept separate from ready-to-eat foods?
Raw meat may contain harmful bacteria that can contaminate foods that will not be cooked.
Why is food unsafe when kept in the danger zone too long?
Bacteria multiply rapidly in this temperature range, increasing the risk of foodborne illness.
What should be done with food that smells sour or looks moldy?
It should be thrown away because it may be unsafe to eat.
True or False: You can tell food is safe by tasting it
False — harmful bacteria often cannot be tasted or smelled.
You notice raw chicken juice leaking onto vegetables in the fridge. What is the safest action?
Discard the vegetables and clean and sanitize the refrigerator.
What kitchen tool should be washed after cutting raw chicken before being used again?
Cutting boards, knives, and any utensils used must be washed and sanitized.
How long can perishable food safely remain in the danger zone?
No more than 2 hours (or 1 hour if temperatures are above 90°F)
Why should refrigerators not be overcrowded?
Air must circulate to keep foods at safe temperatures.
True or False: Washing fruits and vegetables removes all bacteria.
False — washing reduces bacteria but does not eliminate all of it.
A classmate sneezes into their hands and continues cooking. What should happen next?
They should wash their hands thoroughly before continuing.
Where should raw meat be stored in the refrigerator to prevent cross-contamination?
Raw meat should be stored on the bottom shelf so juices cannot drip onto other foods.
Is food safe if it was left out at room temperature for 4 hours? Why or why not?
No, because it remained in the danger zone too long and bacteria may have grown.
How should leftovers be stored to stay safe?
In airtight containers and refrigerated promptly.
True or False: Cooking food properly kills most harmful bacteria.
True — proper cooking temperatures destroy bacteria.
Leftover pasta was left out overnight. What should be done?
It should be thrown away because it was in the danger zone too long.
Name two ways cross-contamination can occur in a kitchen
Using the same cutting board for raw and cooked foods, or touching food with unwashed hands.
How can you keep food out of the danger zone during storage?
Keep hot foods hot, cold foods cold, and refrigerate perishable foods promptly.
Why should cleaning chemicals be stored away from food?
To prevent chemical contamination.
True or False: Frozen food is free from bacteria.
False — freezing stops growth but does not kill all bacteria.
You are unsure whether food is safe to eat. What is the best choice?
When in doubt, throw it out.