Contamination

Definition

Contamination in the context of food refers to the presence of harmful substances or organisms that can lead to foodborne illnesses or spoilage.

Scientific / Technical Definition

Contamination in food is the unintended inclusion of harmful biological, chemical, or physical entities that can adversely affect the quality and safety of the food product. This can occur at any stage of the food production chain, from initial farming to final consumption.

Benefits

Examples

• Pesticide residue in fruits and vegetables.
• Bacterial contamination such as Salmonella in poultry.
• Cross-contamination between non-GMO and GMO crops during transport.

Additional Information

• knownIssues: Food contamination can lead to foodborne diseases and contribute to health hazards such as food poisoning. Measures such as thorough cooking, proper storage, and strict hygiene practices can help minimize the risks.

Related Terms

• Food Safety
• Cross-Contamination
• Pathogen
• Allergens
• Food Hygiene

References

• Food Contamination and Safety Culture
• Preventing Food Contamination: The Role of Food Safety Practices