What condition should food packaging be in to avoid contamination?

Food packaging must be clean, dry, and intact to ensure the safety and quality of the food inside. Clean packaging ensures that there are no harmful pathogens or contaminants present that could transfer to the food. A dry package helps to prevent mold and bacterial growth, which thrive in moist environments. Being intact means that there are no tears, holes, or breaks in the packaging that could allow contamination from external sources or compromise the integrity of the food.

Packages that are loose and flexible, or sealed but damaged, can pose risks as they may allow contaminants to enter, affecting the food's safety. Dented packages, even if unopened, could indicate potential internal damage and may compromise the quality of the contents or allow bacteria to enter. Therefore, maintaining a clean, dry, and intact packaging is essential in food safety practices.