| − | '''Cross-contamination''' is the transfer of harmful substances or [[disease]]-causing microorganisms to food by hands, food-contact surfaces, sponges, cloth towels and utensils that touch raw food, are not cleaned, and then touch ready-to-eat foods. Cross contamination can also occur when raw food touches or drips onto cooked or ready-to-eat foods. For further consumer safety information on cross-contamination, visit: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/OA/pubs/keep_apart.htm | + | '''Cross-contamination''' is the transfer of harmful substances or [[disease]]-causing microorganisms to food by hands, food-contact surfaces, sponges, cloth towels and utensils that touch raw food, are not cleaned, and then touch ready-to-eat foods. Cross contamination can also occur when raw food touches or drips onto cooked or ready-to-eat foods. |