Handling & Avoiding Cross-Contamination
Some food products can be contaminated before they are handled by employees. This should be labeled by the manufacturer. Common examples are products processed in a plant with other products containing wheat or nuts. It is our obligation to notify our guests that such products are used. This can be done with a menu note, tabletop advertisement, and/or relayed by the wait staff.
Most allergen contaminations happen due to mishandling and mislabeling of food products. As food handlers, there are important steps we can take. These steps are recognized by CDC, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and NRA as ways to avoid cross-contamination:
• Use proper sanitary receiving guidelines (can be found at www.servsafe.com).
• Implement a personal hygiene program. Cross-contamination is possible from surfaces and people.
• Use reputable suppliers, and check all permits and licenses.
• Store all prepared food in areas separate from contaminants.
• Properly handle, clean and store products in areas away from contaminants.
• Wash and sanitize all equipment and small wares (use separate area or equipment when possible).
• Required training programs for front- and back-of-house employees.
• Inform guests of “secret” ingredients.
• Use visible disclaimer of possible allergens on menu.