What measures should be taken to avoid cross-contamination in the kitchen?

Using effective hand washing and sanitizing of all surfaces is essential in preventing cross-contamination in the kitchen. This practice helps eliminate harmful bacteria and pathogens that can transfer from one food item to another or from surfaces to food. Proper hand hygiene ensures that contaminants from hands do not make their way into food preparation, while sanitizing surfaces like countertops, cutting boards, and utensils helps to create a safe cooking environment.

While other options, such as using disposable items or separate storage for raw food, can contribute to safe food handling practices, they do not comprehensively address the broader need for ongoing sanitation and hygiene procedures that are critical for preventing cross-contamination. Regularly switching out ingredients may help with freshness but doesn't inherently prevent contamination between food items. Thus, maintaining cleanliness through hand washing and sanitization stands out as the most effective measure to avoid cross-contamination in the kitchen.