Kontaminace

Kontaminace refers to the undesirable presence of impurities or foreign substances in a material, environment, or organism. These contaminants can be biological, chemical, or physical in nature. In a biological context, contamination often involves the introduction of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi into a sterile environment or a living being. This can lead to infections, spoilage of food, or degradation of manufactured goods.

Chemical contamination occurs when unwanted chemical substances are introduced, altering the composition and properties of the original material. This can range from the presence of heavy metals in water to residues of pesticides on food crops. Physical contamination involves the presence of foreign physical objects, such as dirt, hair, or fragments of packaging, in products, particularly in food and pharmaceutical industries, posing a risk of injury or illness.

The sources of contamination are diverse and can include environmental factors, human error, improper handling, or cross-contamination between different sources. Preventing and controlling contamination is crucial across many fields, including healthcare, food production, manufacturing, and environmental science, to ensure safety, quality, and public health. Various methods are employed for detection, monitoring, and mitigation of contaminants, often involving rigorous testing and adherence to strict protocols.