Final answer:
Food can come in contact with germs from various sources, including infected individuals, raw or undercooked meat, unpasteurized products, contaminated water, raw produce, contaminated surfaces, and through cross-contamination between raw and ready-to-eat foods.
Step-by-step explanation:
Name 8 sources of Germs that can come in contact with food There are various ways by which germs can come in contact with food, potentially causing foodborne illnesses. Here are eight common sources of germs that can contaminate food:
- Infected individuals handling food.
- Raw or undercooked meat and poultry.
- Unpasteurized milk, juice, and dairy products.
- Contaminated water used in farming or food preparation.
- Raw vegetables and fruits, including leafy greens and sprouts.
- Raw seafood, particularly shellfish like oysters.
- Contaminated surfaces such as cutting boards and countertops.
- Cross-contamination between raw and ready-to-eat foods.
The top five germs that cause foodborne illnesses in the United States are Norovirus, Salmonella, Clostridium perfringens, Campylobacter, and Staphylococcus aureus (Staph). It's crucial to practice good food safety to prevent these and other germs from causing illness.