Which of the following practices helps prevent cross-contamination in a kitchen?

Separating raw and cooked foods is essential in preventing cross-contamination because it minimizes the risk of harmful bacteria from raw foods transferring to cooked or ready-to-eat foods. By keeping these categories of food separate, particularly when it comes to storage and preparation, the likelihood of foodborne illnesses is significantly reduced. This is particularly important in a kitchen environment where various food items are handled, as raw meats can harbor bacteria that can contaminate other foods if they come into contact with one another.

When raw and cooked foods are kept apart, the potential for cross-contamination is greatly diminished, ensuring that food safety protocols are effectively followed. This practice is a critical component of safe food handling and is a foundational principle in both food safety training and kitchen management. Proper separation practices contribute to creating a safer cooking environment for both food handlers and consumers.