Which substances fall under chemical contaminants?

The correct answer identifies substances such as cleaners, sanitizers, and polishes as chemical contaminants because these items contain synthetic or natural chemicals that can pose health risks if consumed. In the food service industry, these chemical substances must be strictly separated from food products to prevent any potential contamination.

Chemical contaminants are typically not visible to the naked eye, making them particularly hazardous; they can lead to foodborne illnesses or toxic reactions if they come into contact with food. Proper training and adherence to safety protocols are crucial to ensure that cleaning substances are used appropriately and stored securely away from food areas thus protecting both customers and staff from unintended chemical exposure.

The other options presented involve different types of contaminants, such as biological contaminants (like fungi and bacteria) or physical contaminants (like dirt from unclean hands). While they can all pose risks, they do not fall under the category of chemical contaminants. Recognizing the role of chemical contaminants is essential for maintaining food safety standards and ensuring health compliance in the food service environment.