Which of the following describes cross-contact?

Cross-contact specifically refers to the transfer of allergens from one food item or surface to another, potentially affecting individuals with food allergies. This can happen when utensils, cutting boards, or surfaces that have been in contact with allergenic foods are then used for non-allergenic foods without proper cleaning in between. This contamination can lead to serious allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, making understanding cross-contact essential for food safety in handling and preparing food.

The other options, while related to food safety, do not accurately describe cross-contact. For instance, having a physical link between clean and dirty water pertains more to water safety and contamination prevention rather than allergens. Mixing different food types could refer to food preparation processes, but it does not encompass the allergenic transfer that defines cross-contact. Cooking different types of food simultaneously may raise issues of cross-contamination, especially in the context of cooking equipment, but it doesn't specifically address the allergen transfer concern that cross-contact covers.