Cross-Contact


The transfer of allergens from one food or surface to another, similar to cross-contamination but specifically referring to allergen exposure. Food handlers must clean and sanitize thoroughly.

Related Terms

Non-Latex Gloves Usage

Some TXDSHS-regulated establishments prefer nitrile or vinyl gloves to prevent latex allergies. S...

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Alternative Proteins

Items like plant-based meats or insect proteins. Food establishments must label and store them pr...

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Guacamole Prep Safety

Guidance on preventing cross-contamination with raw onions, peppers, or tomatoes, especially in m...

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Bare-Hand Contact

Direct touching of ready-to-eat foods without gloves or utensils. TXDSHS typically prohibits this...

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Food Allergy

An immune response to proteins in specific foods (e.g., peanuts, shellfish); can cause serious re...

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Bar Utensils Sanitation

Cleaning and sanitizing shakers, stirrers, and glassware to prevent cross-contamination of bevera...

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Contaminated Equipment

Utensils, cutting boards, or machines harboring pathogens or allergens. Food handlers must wash, ...

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Cocktail Garnish Allergens

Common garnishes like dairy-based whipped cream or nut-based toppings can introduce allergens. St...

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Return/Exchange Policy for Prepared Foods

Many establishments disallow returns of hot or packaged ready-to-eat foods due to contamination r...

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Shared Plate Cross-Contamination

Occurs when multiple diners share dishes, risking allergen or pathogen transfer. Staff should pro...

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Margarine vs. Butter Handling

Storing and labeling these differently due to allergen concerns (dairy vs. non-dairy). TXDSHS say...

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Hand Washing Procedure

The correct sequence: wet hands, apply soap, scrub 10–15 seconds, rinse, and dry with a single-us...

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Multi-Use vs. Single-Use Gloves

Single-use must be discarded after each task; multi-use utility gloves can be used for cleaning b...

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Sampler Platters

Multiple food items on one plate; risk of cross-contamination if raw or allergen-containing items...

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Religious-Based Dietary Accommodations

Adjusting menus for kosher, halal, or other faith-related rules; labeling foods accordingly helps...

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Allergic Reaction Response

Emergency steps if a customer experiences anaphylaxis, including stopping service, calling 911, a...

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Jalapeño Cutting Station

A dedicated area or utensils for handling spicy peppers, preventing capsaicin contamination of ot...

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Safe Beverage Garnishes

Keeping lemons, limes, cherries in closed containers under correct temperatures. Preventing cross...

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Personal Hygiene

Essential practices like regular hand washing, wearing clean uniforms, and maintaining short nail...

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Baked Goods Display Case

Keeping pastries or breads protected with a cover or display shield. TXDSHS sees these items as l...

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Gluten-Free Handling Procedures

Preventing wheat cross-contact for sensitive patrons by using separate prep spaces or utensils. T...

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Gloves Usage

Disposable gloves reduce bare-hand contact with ready-to-eat foods. TXDSHS requires changing glov...

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