Other types of food contaminations

Types of food contamination 

Microbiological Contamination

Microbiological organisms are small living creatures that can only be seen under a microscope. You may think of them as bugs or.germs.

Microbiological contamination occurs when these microorganisms get into or onto food and spoil or even poison it. They can make food go 'off and render it poisonous.

Chemical Contamination

Many chemicals that are used in food production can. seriously affect the human body. Most chemical contamination occurs when harmful chemicals get into the food. Some sources of chemical contamination include:

                *Fertilizers or insecticides not being washed off fruits and vegetables before processing.

                *Cleaning chemicals getting into or onto food due to poor storage procedures   '

                *Incorrect use of chemicals so harmful chemicals can be transferred onto food from cooking or preparation equipment

You can help avoid chemical contamination by.

Washing fruit and vegetables before you use them and by ensuring correct storage of food and the clear and correct labeling of chemicals and staff being adequately trained on how to use chemicals correctly.

Chipped and damaged crockery

Damaged, cracked and chipped plates, bowls and glassware are a serious food safety hazard as well as an occupational health and safety hazard.

Cracked plates may look fairly minor if the crack is small but bacteria can live in the crack and contaminate the food. Chips and other damage not only looks bad giving a cheap image of the restaurant but it is also an OH&S hazard as it may cut staffer customers.

Damaged, cracked or chipped crockery and glassware should be disposed. If you do not have the authority to dispose of the damage crockery then you should report the crockery to the Chef or Manager.

 Pests and animals

Kitchens and restaurants are no place for animals so of course do not allow pests and animals in food production areas.

Pests such as mice, flies, cockroaches, ants and even birds are food safety hazards. These pests often carry and spread very serious food poisoning bacteria which can contaminate food and cause food poisoning. If you see any pests or animals in food production areas you must report the problem to the Chef or Manager to have the problem fixed.

If an area has been contaminated by pests then the whole area will need to be cleaned and sanitized before it can be used as a food area again.

Cross Contamination

Cross contamination is the transfer of bacteria or other micro organisms from one food or area to another food or area