What is cross-contact in food service?

Cross-contact refers to the unintentional transfer of an allergen from one food to another, which can pose serious health risks for individuals with food allergies. This can happen when food contact surfaces, utensils, or equipment are not properly cleaned between uses or when different foods are stored together without proper segregation. In a food service setting, it is crucial to be vigilant about cross-contact, as even trace amounts of an allergen can trigger severe allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Understanding cross-contact is essential for maintaining food safety and providing a safe dining experience for patrons with allergies. The other options outline different concepts related to food safety, such as transfer of bacteria or food storage practices, but they do not specifically address the issue of allergens mixing unintentionally, which is the defining characteristic of cross-contact.