What is a vehicle of contamination regarding food safety?

A vehicle of contamination in food safety refers to something that can carry pathogens or harmful substances that can contaminate food. Live animals are considered a significant vehicle of contamination because they can carry bacteria, viruses, parasites, and other microorganisms that pose a risk to food safety. When animals are not handled or processed correctly, they can introduce contaminants into the food supply.

In contrast, clean utensils and sealed transport containers do not contribute to food contamination; rather, they help maintain food safety by preventing exposure to harmful agents. Chilled food storage is also a safety measure designed to inhibit the growth of pathogens, ensuring that food remains safe for consumption. This highlights the significant difference in the role live animals play in the context of contamination compared to these other choices.