Which of the following methods is most effective for preventing cross-contamination?

Using separate utensils for raw and cooked foods is indeed the most effective method for preventing cross-contamination. This practice helps to minimize the risk of harmful bacteria, such as Salmonella or E. coli, which can be present in raw foods, particularly meats and eggs, from being transferred to cooked or ready-to-eat foods. By using distinct utensils designated for different food types, you avoid any chance of transferring pathogens that could lead to foodborne illnesses.

This method is a critical aspect of food safety in both home kitchens and food establishments. It is especially important during food preparation, as raw and cooked products often come into direct contact with the same surfaces and tools. Adopting this practice actively disrupts the potential chain of contamination from one food product to another.

While other methods listed, like cooking foods at high temperatures and washing hands frequently, are also important aspects of food safety, they focus on handling and cooking processes rather than the prevention of contamination during the preparation phase. Storing foods in airtight containers helps maintain freshness and prevents spoilage but does not directly address the contamination risks that occur during the cooking and preparation processes.