What is cross-contamination?

Cross-contamination refers to the transfer of harmful microorganisms or bacteria from one food item to another, which can lead to foodborne illnesses. This often occurs through improper handling during food preparation, such as using the same cutting board or utensils for raw meat and vegetables without proper cleaning in between.

Understanding cross-contamination is crucial in culinary arts as it emphasizes the importance of hygiene and proper food handling techniques. This knowledge helps prevent the spread of pathogens that can thrive on food surfaces and result in serious health risks. The other options do not accurately define cross-contamination; for instance, cooking food at the wrong temperature, while a serious safety issue, relates to cooking practices rather than the transfer of bacteria.