What defines a physical hazard in food safety?

A physical hazard in food safety is defined as an unintended object that may be present in food products. These hazards can include items such as pieces of glass, metal shards, or even stones that can inadvertently find their way into food during production or packaging. The presence of these objects poses a risk of injury to consumers, such as choking or cuts, and can lead to food recalls or public health concerns.

Identifying physical hazards is crucial for ensuring food safety because they differ fundamentally from other types of hazards, such as biological or chemical hazards, which involve microorganisms or harmful substances, respectively. Understanding what constitutes a physical hazard enables food handlers, manufacturers, and safety inspectors to implement preventive measures to protect consumers and maintain product integrity.