What is cross-contact?

Cross-contact refers specifically to the transfer of allergens from food that contains an allergen to food that is otherwise safe to consume. This can happen when utensils, cutting boards, or surfaces that have come into contact with allergenic ingredients are used for preparing allergen-free foods without proper cleaning. Understanding cross-contact is essential in food safety practices, especially for individuals with food allergies, as even a small amount of an allergen can trigger serious allergic reactions.

The other options do not accurately define cross-contact. A technique to prevent food allergies would involve measures such as education and labeling, but it does not capture the essence of cross-contact itself. Cooking food to eliminate allergens may reduce some allergens but does not address the transfer issue that occurs in cross-contact situations. Lastly, a method for checking food expiration dates does not relate to allergen transfer at all, focusing instead on food safety and quality management.