As a professional pet sitter, one of my most popular services is house sitting. This means I spend a lot of time in other people’s homes, including their kitchens. My home is mostly soy-free due to my severe soy allergy, and I have strict food safety protocols in place to prevent cross-contamination. But when I’m staying in someone else’s home, things get trickier.
How I Minimize Cross-Contamination in Other People’s Kitchens
The moment I arrive, I take note of potential allergens. I check the fridge and pantry for soy-based products and keep an eye out for vegetable oil, which in the U.S. is often soybean oil. Regardless of what I find, I follow a strict routine:
- Wash all pots, pans, dishes, and utensils before using them for the first time.
- Sanitize food prep areas, including countertops and cutting boards.
- Avoid open condiments in the fridge, as they may have been cross-contaminated.
- Steer clear of communal food items like salt bowls or oil dispensers.
Even if homeowners kindly offer their food, I only eat sealed, clearly labeled products to ensure they are safe.
Kitchen Tools I Avoid Due to Cross-Contamination Risks
1. Sponges
Sponges don’t just harbor bacteria; they can also retain and spread allergens. Even washing them in the dishwasher or microwaving them does not guarantee complete allergen removal. If you have a severe food allergy, using a shared sponge is a huge risk.
2. Cast Iron Pans
I know this might be controversial, but most people don’t clean their cast iron properly. Many just wipe them down with a paper towel or coarse salt, skipping soap and water. That means allergens could still be present. Plus, cast iron pans are often seasoned with oil, and I have no way of knowing if that oil contains soy.
3. Wooden Cutting Boards
Wooden cutting boards can be a breeding ground for bacteria and food allergens if not properly cleaned, sanitized, and sealed. Since I don’t know how well they’ve been maintained, I always avoid them.
4. Bonus: Hand Soaps & Lotions
This one might surprise you! If you have food allergies, check the soap labels in other people’s homes. Some hand soaps contain vegetable oil, which could include soy. If you have a dairy allergy, be mindful that some soaps labeled “milk & honey” actually contain milk proteins. I always check labels before using unfamiliar products.
How Do You Handle Cross-Contamination?
If you have a food allergy, is your kitchen allergen-free, or do you manage shared spaces? What strategies do you use to prevent cross-contamination? Let me know in the comments!
And if you or a loved one has a soy allergy, don’t miss my post on 6 Soy-Free Swaps! From tofu to miso alternatives, there are plenty of ways to enjoy your favorite foods safely.