Surely you have ever heard of the cross contamination. This term refers to the process of transferring bacteria, viruses or toxins from one surface to another, which can occur through direct or indirect contact. For example, pathogens can pass from one food to another, from utensils to food, or even from our hands to food. cross contamination It is a serious problem for people who suffer from food allergies or intolerances, such as people with celiac disease, who can suffer serious reactions if their food comes into contact with dangerous substances such as gluten.
Here we tell you everything you need to know about cross contamination and, most importantly, how to avoid it.
What is cross contamination
cross contamination It is not limited to the transfer of bacteria or viruses, but also toxins, traces of chemicals or potentially dangerous substances such as allergens. This contamination can occur through direct contact between foods or through the use of contaminated utensils or surfaces.
It is important to note that even foods that are not dangerous for the majority of the population, such as those containing gluten, can cause serious health problems for people with intolerances or allergies. Contact of gluten-free foods with foods that contain gluten It is an example of cross-contamination in celiac patients, which can cause allergic reactions or intolerances.
In addition, pathogens or allergens can survive on poorly washed surfaces, equipment or utensils, increasing the risk of contamination. This can trigger food poisoning, causing symptoms such as diarrhoea, vomiting and dizziness.
Health risks
The main risk of the cross contamination is food poisoning. Eating contaminated food, especially raw food, can have serious health consequences. food tox infections Cross-contamination can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, nausea and abdominal pain, as well as causing inflammation and allergic reactions in individuals with hypersensitivities.
It is important to note that raw food They are the most likely to cause problems, as they have not undergone a cooking process that eliminates the microorganisms present. Cross-contamination also affects the most vulnerable people, such as children, the elderly, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems.
How to avoid cross contamination
Preventing cross contamination requires a combination of good hygiene habits and proper food handling and storage. Some key practices include:
- Separate raw and cooked foods: Raw foods, such as meat, fish or eggs, should always be stored separately from cooked or ready-to-eat foods. Use different containers to prevent juices from raw foods from touching other foods.
- Wash your hands frequently: One of the most effective measures to avoid cross contamination is proper hand washing with warm water and soap before and after handling raw foods.
- Separate utensils for each type of food: Use different knives, cutting boards and utensils for raw and cooked foods. If you don't have enough equipment, be sure to clean utensils thoroughly with hot, soapy water between uses.
- Proper storage in the fridge: Place raw foods in the lowest part of the refrigerator to prevent liquids from dripping onto other foods, especially those ready to eat.
In addition, you should follow the following recommendations:
Cleaning and disinfection: It is not enough to wipe down utensils or surfaces that have been used. They must be thoroughly cleaned with specific products, such as disinfectant detergents or hot water. This is especially important after handling raw food.
Using color codes: In many professional kitchens, different colored cutting boards and utensils are used for different types of food. For example, a red board may be used only for raw meat, while a green one may be reserved for fruits and vegetables. This is also a recommended practice in homes.
Beware of raw eggs: Eggs are one of the most common foods that cause contamination. Try to cook eggs thoroughly, especially if you are making omelettes or poached eggs, and make sure to remove any traces of raw egg from the utensils used.
It is important too Wash fruits and vegetables well before eating them, especially if they are going to be eaten raw. You can use a soft brush to remove any dirt or pesticides that may have adhered to the surface.
When cross contamination occurs
La cross contamination It can occur at different times during the food handling, preparation and storage process:
- During preparation: If hands, utensils and surfaces are not cleaned properly, raw foods can contaminate cooked or ready-to-eat foods.
- During storage: It is essential to store raw and cooked products in different places or, failing that, place raw foods at the bottom of the refrigerator to avoid drops or liquids that could contaminate other foods.
In professional kitchens, in addition, other procedures can be followed such as: march forwardThis method organizes the different stages of food preparation without setbacks, thus preventing cooked or ready-to-eat products from coming into contact with raw foods.
By correctly following these recommendations and maintaining constant hygiene during all stages of food handling, we can avoid the risk of cross-contamination in our kitchens, ensuring food safety.