What does the term "cross-contamination" refer to in food safety?

The term "cross-contamination" specifically refers to the transfer of harmful bacteria from one food item to another. This is a critical concept in food safety because it highlights how bacteria can spread between different foods, particularly when raw foods like meat come into contact with ready-to-eat foods such as salads or fruits. This transfer can occur through cutting boards, utensils, hands, or surfaces that have not been properly cleaned after handling raw ingredients. Understanding cross-contamination is essential for preventing foodborne illnesses, as it underscores the importance of keeping different types of food separate during preparation and storage. By ensuring that raw and cooked foods do not come into contact, food handlers can significantly reduce the risk of foodborne pathogens affecting the safety of the meals they prepare.