Causes of Contamination and Cross-Contamination Flashcards
(25 cards)
When does food contamination occur?
When harmful substances or microorganisms unintentionally get into food, making it unsafe to consume
Contaminants of food
- Bacteria
- Viruses
- Parasites
- Toxins
- Chemicals
- Foreign objects
Main causes of food contamination
- Physical contamination by foreign bodies
- Poor standards of personal hygiene
- Poor standards of kitchen hygiene
- Poor temperature control when cooking/reheating
- Poor storage of foods especially high-risk foods
How does cross contamination occur?
When bacteria from contaminated foods are transferred to other foods
Main causes of cross constamination
- Direct contact
- Dripping of blood or juices
- By food handlers who transfer bacteria from raw to cooked by not washing hands
- By equipment
How can cross contamination be prevented?
- Proper food handling
- Proper storage
- Proper cooking
- Hygiene
How can separation be used to prevent cross-contamination?
Using separate cutting boards, utensils, plates for raw meat, poultry, seafood and eggs to prevent cross contamination
How can cooking be used to prevent cross-contamination?
Correct internal temperature using a thermometer will kill bacteria
Statuary food labelling information
- Name of food and description
- List of ingredients in descending order
- Weight or volume of products
- Place of origin
- Storage instructions
- instructions for use/cooking
- Food additives
- Name and address of manufacturer
- The Use by or best before date
Importance of name of food and description
Helps consumers to know exactly what the food is
Importance of list of ingredients in descending order
Helps consumers to take account of likes and dislikes, allergies, or vegetarianism
Importance of weight or volume of product
Helps consumer work out value for money and compare products
Importance of place of origin
Some consumers may avoid products from certain countries on moral grounds
Importance of storage instructions
Consumer is assured the food is safe to eat if followed correctly
Importance of instructions for use/cooking
Helps to ensure foods are correctly prepared and tells the consumer whether the have the time, ability and equipment to prepare the food
Importance of food additives labelling
Some consumers are allergic to certain additives and need to know if they are present in a food
Importance of name and address of manufacturer
It may be needed in case of a complaint
Importance of use by and best before date
Lets consumer know when food should be eaten and whether or not it is safe to eat
Voluntary food labelling information
- Nutritional information
- Bar codes
- Vegetarian labels
- Organic food labels
- Environmental information
How is nutritional information useful?
Aids consumers to make healthier choices
How are bar codes useful?
- Can be read electronically which speeds up payment process, reduces chances of being wrongfully charged and allows better stock control
How are vegetarian labels helpful?
Allows consumers to make easily informed decisions, they will know that the product is free from animal products
How are organic food labels useful?
Shows that the product has been produced organically without the aid of artificial fertilisers and pesticide sprays
