What is an indicator that food may be contaminated?

The presence of signs of pests or spills serves as a clear indicator that food may be contaminated. Pests, such as insects or rodents, can introduce harmful bacteria or pathogens into food products, whether through direct contact or by leaving traces behind, such as feces or urine. Similarly, spills can also lead to cross-contamination, particularly if they involve raw food substances or other contaminants.

In contrast, a fresh appearance of food may be misleading; some products can look appealing while harboring bacteria. Bright packaging is often used for marketing and does not necessarily indicate food safety. Clear labeling provides important information about the contents and expiration dates, but it does not indicate the presence or absence of contamination. Thus, noticing signs of pests or spills is a critical observation for assessing food safety.