One important way to prevent allergic reactions to foods is to prevent:

Preventing cross contact is crucial in managing food allergies because it involves ensuring that allergens from one food do not transfer to another, potentially causing a harmful reaction in sensitive individuals. Cross contact can occur through shared utensils, cutting boards, or prep surfaces, and even through airborne particles if allergenic foods are not handled properly.

By effectively preventing cross contact, food service establishments can significantly reduce the risk of exposure to allergens for customers with food allergies. This involves implementing strict practices, such as using dedicated equipment for allergenic ingredients, clearly labeling foods that contain allergens, and training staff to be aware of cross-contamination risks.

Other options, while related to food safety, do not address the specific concern of cross contact. For instance, not allowing staff to touch food with bare hands primarily concerns hygiene and preventing contamination, whereas preventing customers from eating with bare hands relates to dining etiquette and hygiene practices rather than specifically addressing allergic reactions. The concept of preventing cross contact focuses squarely on safeguarding those with allergies, making it the most critical approach in this context.