Red Seal Cook Practice Exam

What is the best method to prevent cross-contamination in the kitchen?

1. Use the same cutting board for all foods

2. Wash hands frequently without changing boards

3. Use separate cutting boards for raw proteins and ready-to-eat foods

4. Store raw and cooked foods together

The correct answer is: Use separate cutting boards for raw proteins and ready-to-eat foods

Using separate cutting boards for raw proteins and ready-to-eat foods is the best method to prevent cross-contamination in the kitchen. This approach minimizes the risk of harmful bacteria from raw foods contaminating those that are ready to eat. Different types of boards can also help in visually distinguishing which board is designated for which type of food, reinforcing safe food handling practices. Raw proteins, such as meat and seafood, can harbor pathogens that may lead to foodborne illnesses. By using a separate cutting board for these items, it ensures that any bacteria from the raw proteins do not come into contact with foods meant to be served without further cooking, like vegetables or bread. This practice is a fundamental aspect of food safety in the kitchen and is often reinforced in food handling guidelines and training. In contrast, using the same cutting board for all foods can lead to significant health risks, especially if the board is not adequately cleaned and sanitized between uses. Similarly, washing hands without changing boards does not address the risk of cross-contamination since the same contaminants can be transferred from the cutting board to other foods. Storing raw and cooked foods together also poses a risk for cross-contamination, as raw foods can leak juices or particles that may contaminate cooked items.