What is a potential risk of having insufficient lighting in food preparation areas?

Insufficient lighting in food preparation areas significantly increases the likelihood of contamination and safety issues. Proper lighting is essential for effective observation and supervision of food handling processes. It allows employees to see potential hazards, such as dirt, foreign objects, or spoiled ingredients, thus enabling them to maintain high standards of cleanliness and food safety.

When lighting is inadequate, workers may not notice cross-contamination, or they might miss proper food storage techniques. For example, if employees cannot see whether surfaces are clean or if food has gone bad, they may inadvertently use contaminated utensils or ingredients. This lack of visibility can lead to serious foodborne illnesses, making it crucial for food establishments like Starbucks to ensure their preparation areas are well-lit to promote safety and hygiene.