What type of contaminant is a chemical cleaner considered?

A chemical cleaner is categorized as a chemical contaminant because it includes substances that can cause illness or injury if ingested. This classification encompasses a wide range of products, such as detergents, sanitizers, and other cleaning agents that are not intended for food consumption. When these kinds of chemicals come into contact with food, they can lead to serious health risks, including poisoning or irritation.

Understanding this distinction is important in food safety management, as it highlights the need to properly store and use these substances. Unlike biological contaminants, which are living organisms like bacteria and viruses, or physical contaminants, which involve foreign objects such as hair or glass, chemical contaminants are specifically related to the presence of hazardous substances not approved for food. Recognizing the characteristics of each type of contaminant is crucial for maintaining a safe food environment.