Sanitation Certification Practice Test

What is a recommended method to prevent cross-contamination in food preparation?

1. Use one cutting board for all foods

2. Prep all types of food at once

3. Use separate equipment for each food type

4. Only wash equipment at the end of preparation

The correct answer is: Use separate equipment for each food type

Using separate equipment for each food type is a highly recommended method to prevent cross-contamination in food preparation. Cross-contamination occurs when harmful bacteria or allergens from one food item transfer to another, thereby increasing the risk of foodborne illness. By maintaining separate cutting boards, knives, and utensils for various types of food—especially raw meats, vegetables, and ready-to-eat items—food handlers can effectively minimize the risk of cross-contact between potentially hazardous and non-hazardous foods. This method supports food safety practices by ensuring that raw animal products do not contaminate other foods that may be consumed without cooking. For example, if raw chicken is prepared on a cutting board that is then used for vegetables without proper cleaning, the bacteria from the chicken can easily transfer to the vegetables and pose a serious health risk to consumers. Therefore, utilizing separate equipment is a fundamental principle of maintaining a safe food preparation environment. In contrast, using one cutting board for all foods or prepping all types of food at once can lead to significant cross-contamination risks. Similarly, washing equipment only at the end of preparation does not adequately eliminate potential contaminants throughout the cooking process, as bacteria can multiply and spread during food prep.