How do you contaminate food?

Food contamination can occur in a variety of ways, including through contact with harmful bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Some of the most common sources of food contamination include:

* Poor hygiene practices: Food handlers who do not wash their hands properly or who handle food with dirty utensils or equipment can contaminate food with bacteria.

* Cross-contamination: This occurs when raw meat, poultry, or seafood comes into contact with other foods, such as fruits and vegetables. This can transfer harmful bacteria to the other foods.

* Inadequate cooking: Food that is not cooked to the proper temperature can contain harmful bacteria.

* Improper storage: Food that is not stored at the proper temperature can allow bacteria to grow.

* Unsafe food sources: Food that is obtained from unsafe sources, such as uninspected meat or poultry, can be contaminated with bacteria.

To prevent food contamination, it is important to follow safe food handling practices. These practices include:

* Washing hands frequently with soap and water

* Keeping food preparation surfaces clean

* Using separate cutting boards for raw meat, poultry, and seafood

* Cooking food to the proper temperature

* Storing food at the proper temperature

* Obtaining food from safe sources