What it means
Food was stored or handled in a way that could let germs or other material get into it, such as raw meat stored above ready-to-eat food or uncovered food. Cross-contamination is a common cause of foodborne illness.
How serious is it?
Each department labels its own findings. The severity shown on a restaurant’s record comes from the official inspection, and a past finding may have been corrected. Look for follow-up inspections.