Allergic reactions can be prevented by ____.

Avoiding cross-contact is essential for preventing allergic reactions because it ensures that allergenic ingredients do not mix with food items that are safe for individuals with food allergies. Cross-contact can happen when utensils, equipment, or surfaces that have come into contact with allergenic foods are used without proper cleaning, inadvertently transferring allergens to the non-allergenic foods.

For individuals with food allergies, even trace amounts of an allergen can trigger a serious allergic reaction. Therefore, rigorous practices for preventing cross-contact, such as using separate utensils for allergenic and non-allergenic foods, properly cleaning surfaces, and training staff on allergen management, are critical components of food safety protocols. This focus on avoiding cross-contact helps create a safer dining environment for those with food allergies and effectively minimizes the risk of allergic reactions.