What is a common characteristic of a contaminated food item?

A common characteristic of a contaminated food item is that it may contain harmful substances. Contamination can occur through various means, including the introduction of bacteria, viruses, parasites, or chemical substances that can pose health risks if ingested. These harmful substances may not always be detectable through sight or smell, which makes it critical for food handlers to understand that food can be contaminated without obvious signs.

Contaminated food does not always exhibit visible alterations or bad odors. Many harmful pathogens, for example, can be present in food that looks and smells perfectly fine. Additionally, while expired food can sometimes be unsafe to eat, not all contaminated food is expired, nor does expiration necessarily mean that a food item is contaminated. Understanding this aspect is vital for ensuring food safety and preventing foodborne illnesses.