How to Answer: How do you prevent cross-contamination?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Food Service job interview.
20. How do you prevent cross-contamination?
How to Answer
Cross-contamination occurs when bacteria is unintentionally transferred from one food to another, often causing an ill effect such as food poisoning. The biggest culprits for cross-contamination include:
- Employees failing to wash their hands often enough
- Using the same cutting board for meat and poultry, as you do fruits and veggies
- Storing food at an incorrect temperature
- Failing to sanitize equipment fully
Show the interviewer that you understand how vital it is to adhere to strict food handling and safety procedures. Discuss what you do to play your part when it comes to food safety.
1st Answer Example
"I prevent cross-contamination by ensuring that I wash my hands way more than the expected minimum. I am also careful to cut meat and poultry only on the designated cutting boards, then fully sanitizing any equipment once I am done my task."
2nd Answer Example
"Cross-contamination can be prevented through thorough sanitation and handwashing. I am very firm with my kitchen team when it comes to safety and health practices, and I have never had an issue come up from dangerous cross-contamination."