Why should raw meat and cooked food be kept separate?

Correct answer: To prevent cross-contamination by germs

Raw meat may carry harmful microorganisms. If it touches cooked food, plates, knives, chopping boards, or hands without proper cleaning, those organisms can transfer to food that will not receive further cooking. Keeping raw and cooked items separate, using different utensils, washing hands, and cooking meat thoroughly reduces cross-contamination and foodborne illness.