What practice minimizes the risk of contamination from food allergens?

Thorough cleaning between preparing different food items is essential for minimizing the risk of contamination from food allergens. This practice ensures that surfaces, utensils, and equipment used to prepare allergenic foods are properly sanitized before they come into contact with non-allergenic foods. Allergens can be present in very small quantities, and even trace amounts can lead to severe reactions in sensitive individuals. By thoroughly cleaning between tasks, food handlers effectively remove any potential allergen residues, thereby significantly reducing the risk of cross-contact and ensuring a safer food preparation environment.

Using the same utensils for all food items would increase the risk of cross-contamination, while preparing allergenic foods first and storing all foods together could also lead to accidental exposure to allergens. Thus, the practice of thorough cleaning serves as a crucial step in maintaining food safety and protecting individuals with food allergies.