What is the proper use of cast iron in food handling?

Using cast iron as a cooking surface is advantageous due to its ability to retain and distribute heat evenly, which is essential for effective cooking. Cast iron cookware provides a non-stick surface when seasoned properly, allowing for an excellent cooking experience for a variety of foods. Additionally, the durability of cast iron means it can withstand high temperatures, making it suitable for a variety of cooking methods such as frying, baking, and sautéing.

In contrast, other options do not align with recommended practices. Placing cast iron on a food prep table or using it as a cutting board can lead to contamination and hygiene issues, as the surface may not be sanitized properly for food prep tasks or could be scratched, leading to harboring bacteria. Using cast iron as a plate is also inappropriate; while it could technically hold food, it isn’t designed for serving due to its heat retention, which could result in burns if the dish is hot. Thus, the safest and most effective use of cast iron in food handling is clearly as a cooking surface.