Which scenario is NOT an example of "cross-contamination"?

The scenario involving leaving foods in the temperature danger zone for too long does not represent cross-contamination because it refers to the risk of food being held at unsafe temperatures, allowing pathogens to grow rather than transferring contaminants from one food to another. Cross-contamination specifically involves the transfer of harmful microorganisms or allergens from one food item or surface to another.

In contrast, using the same cutting board for raw chicken and vegetables directly transfers bacteria from the raw chicken to the vegetables. Storing cooked food above raw food can lead to drips or spills that contaminate the cooked food with bacteria from the raw food. Using contaminated utensils can also transfer pathogens from one food item to another. These examples illustrate the concept of cross-contamination through direct transfer of pathogens, whereas simply leaving food in the danger zone is more about improper temperature control, which is a separate issue related to food safety.