allergen cross-contact

Allergen cross-contact occurs when a food or surface unintentionally comes into contact with an allergen, transferring small traces that can trigger allergic reactions. This often happens during preparation, cooking, or serving, such as sharing utensils, cutting boards, or fryers. It’s different from cross-contamination with bacteria because even tiny amounts of an allergen can cause serious health issues for allergic individuals. To prevent this, strict separation of allergens, thorough cleaning, and careful handling are essential, especially in environments like restaurants or kitchens where multiple foods are prepared.