In food safety, what does "contamination" refer to?

Contamination in food safety specifically refers to the presence of harmful substances in food. This can include biological contaminations such as bacteria, viruses, or parasites, as well as chemical contaminants like pesticides or allergens. Understanding this concept is crucial for maintaining food safety, as these harmful substances can lead to foodborne illnesses, posing serious health risks to consumers.

The other choices, while related to food safety, do not accurately define contamination. The expiration date pertains to the shelf life and safety of food items over time, rather than the harmful presence of substances. The preparation process refers to how food is made and handled, which might involve contamination if not done correctly, but it doesn't define what contamination is. Lastly, hygiene practices of staff are vital for preventing contamination but don't relate directly to what contamination itself entails. Recognizing the definition of contamination helps in identifying risks and implementing measures to prevent unsafe food practices.