What should not be stored over or near food items?

Chemicals should not be stored over or near food items because they pose a significant risk of contamination. Chemicals, such as cleaning agents or sanitizers, can potentially leak or spill, leading to harmful substances coming into contact with food. This contamination can result in foodborne illnesses or toxic reactions if the contaminated food is consumed.

In addition, food safety guidelines emphasize the importance of keeping food items separate from non-food items like chemicals to prevent any accidental exposure. Proper storage practices involve ensuring that anything that could potentially harm food, including chemicals, is stored in designated areas away from food preparation and storage sites.