Can using tongs to handle RAw meat then using hands to ready eat food cause foodborne illness?

Yes, using tongs to handle raw meat and then using your hands to touch ready-to-eat food can cause foodborne illness. This practice can transfer harmful bacteria from the raw meat to the ready-to-eat food, leading to contamination. It's important to always wash your hands and any utensils or surfaces that have come into contact with raw meat before handling other foods. Proper food safety practices, including avoiding cross-contamination, are essential to prevent foodborne illnesses.