What type of food hazard is it when Meat left next to the veggies on kitchen counter?

Cross-contamination

When raw meat is left next to vegetables on the kitchen counter, there is a risk of cross-contamination. This means that bacteria from the raw meat can transfer to the vegetables, making them unsafe to eat.

Cross-contamination can occur when:

* Raw meat, poultry, or seafood is placed on the same cutting board or counter as ready-to-eat foods.

* Utensils that have been used to handle raw meat, poultry, or seafood are used to handle ready-to-eat foods.

* Raw meat, poultry, or seafood drips onto ready-to-eat foods.

To prevent cross-contamination, it is important to:

* Keep raw meat, poultry, and seafood separate from ready-to-eat foods.

* Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw meat, poultry, and seafood.

* Wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw meat, poultry, or seafood.

* Clean and disinfect any surfaces that have come into contact with raw meat, poultry, or seafood.

By following these steps, you can help to reduce the risk of cross-contamination and keep your food safe to eat.