A customer complains that she found plastic packaging in her soup. This is an example of which hazard?

Finding plastic packaging in soup is classified as a physical hazard. Physical hazards refer to foreign objects that can inadvertently contaminate food, posing a risk to consumer safety. These objects can be anything from pieces of glass, metal, or, in this case, plastic. Such contaminants can cause injury or discomfort if ingested, which is why it is critical for food handlers to inspect food products for foreign materials before serving.

Biological hazards, on the other hand, relate to harmful microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, or parasites that can cause foodborne illness. Chemical hazards involve harmful substances that may accidentally get into food, like cleaning agents or pesticides, while cross-contamination happens when harmful bacteria or allergens are transferred from one food or surface to another. Understanding these different types of hazards helps food handlers maintain safe food practices and protect consumer health.