What is the purpose of color-coded cutting boards?

The purpose of color-coded cutting boards is primarily to prevent cross-contamination between different food types. This practice is crucial in culinary safety, as different foods carry different risks of contamination. For example, using one color for raw meat, another for vegetables, and yet another for cooked foods helps ensure that harmful bacteria from raw foods do not come into contact with foods that are ready to be consumed. This system enables chefs and food handlers to quickly identify which cutting board to use for specific food categories, thereby maintaining food safety standards and protecting the health of consumers.