Glass in food preparation is an example of which type of contamination?

• A. Biological contamination
• B. Chemical contamination
• C. Physical contamination
• D. Allergen contamination

Answer: (C)

Physical contamination occurs when a foreign object ends up in food, creating a tangible hazard. Glass in food preparation is a classic example because broken glass or glass fragments can inadvertently fall into dishes during handling, serving, or storage. This type stands apart from biological contamination, which involves microorganisms; chemical contamination, which involves toxins or cleaners; and allergen contamination, which is the unintended presence of an allergen. Protecting against it means using intact glassware, checking for cracks, keeping lids on containers, opting for safer materials when possible, and training staff to report damaged items so they can be removed before they reach food.