Ontario Food Handler Certification Practice Exam 2025 - Free Food Handler Certification Practice Questions and Study Guide

Keeping raw and cooked foods separate is crucial for food safety during storage because it helps to prevent cross-contamination. Raw foods, particularly meats, can carry harmful bacteria that could contaminate other foods, especially those that are ready to eat, such as cooked meals, salads, or fruits. When these items are not stored separately, such as in the same container or on the same shelf, the risk of spreading bacteria from raw to cooked foods increases significantly, leading to foodborne illnesses.

This practice not only safeguards the health of consumers by minimizing the likelihood of foodborne pathogens spreading from raw to cooked items but also helps maintain the integrity of the food, ensuring that cooked foods remain safe for consumption. Proper separation during storage is a key component of overall food safety and effective food handling practices.

Other storage options like using large containers or labeling food with expiration dates contribute to overall food safety and efficiency, but they do not specifically address the critical concern of preventing contamination between raw and cooked foods. Storing food at room temperature is generally not recommended, as it can lead to the growth of harmful bacteria, further highlighting the importance of proper food storage practices.