What is a key step in preventing cross-contamination during food preparation?

Keeping raw and cooked foods separate is essential in preventing cross-contamination during food preparation. Raw foods, particularly meats, poultry, and seafood, can carry harmful pathogens that can be transferred to cooked foods through direct contact or via utensils, surfaces, and equipment. By ensuring that raw and cooked foods are stored and prepared separately, we significantly reduce the risk of these pathogens contaminating ready-to-eat foods, helping to ensure food safety.

Additionally, separating raw and cooked foods also involves using distinct cutting boards, utensils, and storage containers to avoid any potential cross-contact. This practice aligns with food safety protocols designed to protect consumers from foodborne illnesses. Proper segregation minimizes the chances of pathogens surviving from the raw ingredients and posing a risk to public health when cooked foods are consumed.