What is the issue when raw egg touches cooked pancakes?

When raw egg comes into contact with cooked pancakes, the primary concern is the risk of contamination. Raw eggs can harbor harmful pathogens, such as Salmonella, which can lead to foodborne illness. If these pathogens are transferred to the cooked pancakes, they can pose a serious health risk to anyone consuming the food.

Food safety practices emphasize the importance of preventing cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods to ensure that cooked items remain safe for consumption. Thus, maintaining a strict separation between raw ingredients and ready-to-eat foods is crucial in food handling practices. This context underlines why the risk of contamination is a significant issue when raw eggs touch cooked pancakes.