The answer may be to get into The Conservation Balancing Act . The kitchen is a place for food preparation. The role of sanitation is important here. Raw foods, especially meats contain microorganisms that can produce toxic substances. Dirt and sometimes chemicals used in the production of fruit and vegetables should be washed off.
Food poisoning is possible when foods become contaminated.
Cleanliness is essential in the kitchen. This means special care in refrigerating foods and for cleaning and disposing of food wastes. Food is cooked to make it more palatable and in some cases safe for consumption. Food waste and spills attract insects rodents that can carry disease. Florida winters are too mild to kill insects and mildew and molds each year, so the habit of cleanliness to protect against insect and mold infestation is especially important.