Final answer:
Improper time-temperature abuse of food can lead to foodborne illness in several ways: bacteria growth due to incorrect storage temperatures, bacteria survival due to insufficient cooking temperatures, and cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods.
Step-by-step explanation:
Foodborne illness can result if food is time-temperature abused in several ways. When food is not stored or cooked at the correct temperatures, it becomes an ideal environment for bacteria to grow and multiply. For example, if raw meat is left at room temperature for too long, the bacteria on the meat can multiply to dangerous levels. When this contaminated meat is then consumed, it can cause foodborne illness.
In addition, if food is not cooked to the appropriate temperature, harmful bacteria may survive and cause illness. This is why it is important to use a food thermometer to ensure that meat is cooked to the recommended internal temperature.
Cross-contamination can also occur if raw and cooked foods come into contact with each other. For example, if a cutting board that was used for raw chicken is not properly cleaned before being used to chop vegetables, bacteria from the chicken can contaminate the vegetables.