Which of the following is considered a chemical contaminant?

Cleaning products are classified as chemical contaminants because they contain substances that can be harmful if ingested. These products are designed for sanitation and maintenance, but if they inadvertently come into contact with food or food surfaces, they can introduce toxic elements that pose health risks to consumers.

Chemical contaminants can arise from various sources, including cleaning agents, pesticides, food additives, and even natural toxins found in certain plants and animals. In a food handling context, it is essential to ensure that these substances are stored properly and used in ways that prevent them from contaminating food. Unlike physical contaminants such as bone fragments or plastic debris, which result from foreign objects, chemical contaminants specifically refer to harmful chemicals that may compromise food safety.