What can cause chemical contamination of food?

Chemical contamination of food primarily occurs due to the improper use of cleaning agents or cooking with non-food safe materials. This is a significant concern in food safety because many chemicals found in cleaning products or materials that are not intended for food use can result in harmful residues that may be ingested. For example, if a food service establishment uses bleach-based cleaners on surfaces that come into contact with food and does not adequately rinse those surfaces afterward, chemical residues can transfer to food, leading to potential health risks for consumers.

They are tasked with ensuring that all items used in food preparation and service are safe and appropriate for such use. It is crucial to use products that are specifically labeled as food-safe to prevent health hazards associated with chemical contamination. Proper training in the use and storage of these substances is essential for food handlers and managers to maintain safe food practices and protect public health.