Final answer:
Pathogens can spread to food through cross-contamination when equipment is not properly cleaned and sanitized between uses, leading to foodborne illnesses. Regular handwashing and clean kitchen practices are crucial to prevent this.
Step-by-step explanation:
How Pathogens Spread to Food
Pathogens can spread to food if equipment is not cleaned and sanitized correctly between uses because of cross-contamination. This occurs when bacteria or viruses from unclean surfaces or foods are transferred to other foods. For example, if a cutting board used to chop raw chicken isn't cleaned properly before being used to slice vegetables, the raw vegetables may become contaminated with pathogens like Salmonella. Such pathogens can lead to foodborne illnesses when the contaminated food is consumed.
Regular handwashing and cleaning kitchen surfaces and utensils are essential practices to avoid the introduction and spread of pathogens in food preparation areas. According to the Food and Drug Administration, food safety is reliant on such good hygiene and food handling practices. It is critical to ensure that all food contact surfaces are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized between the preparation of different food items to prevent this type of cross-contamination.