After cutting raw meat, what should you do before cutting vegetables to prevent cross-contamination?

To effectively prevent cross-contamination after cutting raw meat, it is essential to wash, rinse, and sanitize both the cutting board and the knife before using them for vegetables. This thorough cleaning process eliminates harmful bacteria that may have been present on the raw meat. Since vegetables may be consumed raw, ensuring that all surfaces and utensils are properly sanitized is crucial for food safety.

Rinsing the knife in cold water or simply wiping it with a towel does not adequately remove bacteria; these methods may not kill pathogens or remove contaminants effectively. Cutting vegetables before meat does not address cross-contamination risk once the meat is cut, which can lead to untreated surfaces and utensils spreading bacteria. Therefore, the correct practice is to use a systematic cleaning procedure—washing, rinsing, and sanitizing—to maintain food safety standards and prevent any potential health risks.