8.3.1  Air and dust

Microorganisms are found everywhere in our environment. Many types can be found in air and dust, and can contaminate food at any time during food preparation or when food is left uncovered (Figure 8.4). Imagine a kitchen where food is prepared and stored in rural communities, and think how easily microorganisms in the air and dust could contaminate the food.

Butter in uncovered containers
Figure 8.4  Butter for sale in uncovered containers open to the air. (Photo: Janet Haresnape)

8.3  Routes of microbial contamination of food

8.3.2  Soil, water and plants