Which type of contamination could occur when a sanitizer chemical residue is left on equipment?

• A. Physical
• B. Chemical
• C. Biological
• D. Radiological

Answer: (B)

Chemical contamination happens when a cleaning or sanitizing chemical ends up on surfaces that touch food. If sanitizer residue is left on equipment, that chemical can transfer to the food, potentially causing illness, a chemical burn, or off-flavors, depending on the substance and concentration. This differs from physical contamination, which involves foreign objects like glass or metal, and from biological contamination, which involves pathogens, and from radiological contamination, which involves radioactive materials. To prevent this, follow the sanitizer’s label directions, rinse or remove residues as required, use the correct concentration, and allow surfaces to air-dry or drain as specified before the equipment is used again.