ServSafe Manager Practice Exam

What strategy can prevent cross-contamination?

1. Store raw meat above cooked food

2. Use the same cutting board for all food types

3. Buy food that does not require prepping

4. Handle food with unwashed hands

The correct answer is: Buy food that does not require prepping

Choosing to buy food that does not require prepping is an effective strategy to prevent cross-contamination. When food is purchased pre-prepared and ready to eat, it eliminates the need for slicing, dicing, or any other food preparation methods that could introduce harmful bacteria from one food item to another. For instance, when raw meat is handled or prepared, there is a risk that juices may contaminate other foods, particularly those that are ready to be consumed. By avoiding this interaction altogether, the risk of spreading pathogens is significantly reduced. The other strategies could potentially lead to cross-contamination. Storing raw meat above cooked food can result in drips or spills from the raw meat contaminating the cooked food below. Using the same cutting board for all food types, especially raw and cooked, allows for bacteria from raw foods to contaminate those that are ready to eat. Handling food with unwashed hands poses a direct risk of transferring any bacteria present on the hands to the food being prepared. Thus, opting for pre-prepped foods is a proactive approach to ensure food safety.