California eFoodHandlers Practice Exam

Which of the following is a way to prevent cross contamination?

1. Rinsing fruits and vegetables with hot water

2. Using the same cutting board for meat and vegetables

3. Storing raw meat, fish, and poultry or eggs separate and on the lowest shelves of the refrigerator

4. Thawing frozen meat on the counter

The correct answer is: Storing raw meat, fish, and poultry or eggs separate and on the lowest shelves of the refrigerator

Cross contamination occurs when bacteria from one food item is transferred to another. Rinsing fruits and vegetables with hot water (option A) may remove some bacteria, but it does not prevent bacteria from being transferred from raw meat to the produce while cutting them on the same board. Using the same cutting board for meat and vegetables (option B) is a common mistake that can lead to cross contamination. Storing raw meat, fish, and poultry or eggs separately and on the lowest shelves of the refrigerator (option C) helps prevent the juices from these items to drip onto other foods and contaminate them. Thawing frozen meat on the counter (option D) can cause bacteria to grow and multiply rapidly, which can lead to foodborne illness. Therefore, option C is the correct answer as it is the most effective way to prevent cross contamination.