Starbucks Food Safety Practice Exam

What term describes the transfer of bacteria from raw food to cooked or ready-to-eat food?

1. Cross contamination

2. Foodborne illness

3. Food spoilage

4. Hygienic failure

The correct answer is: Cross contamination

The term that describes the transfer of bacteria from raw food to cooked or ready-to-eat food is cross contamination. This process can occur through various means, such as using the same cutting board or utensils for raw and cooked food without proper cleaning in between. When raw food, especially meats or seafood, contains harmful bacteria and then comes into contact with food that is ready to be consumed, it poses a significant risk for foodborne illness in consumers. Understanding cross contamination is crucial in food safety practices, as it highlights the importance of keeping raw and cooked foods separate, as well as maintaining cleanliness in the kitchen environment. Awareness of this concept helps prevent foodborne illnesses, which can arise from eating contaminated food.