The definition of 'sanitary' includes being free from what?

The term 'sanitary' fundamentally refers to being free from harmful levels of microorganisms. This definition emphasizes the importance of preventing contamination that could lead to health issues. In contexts such as food safety and sanitation, it is crucial to maintain environments that are not just clean in a visible sense, but also safe from pathogens that can cause illness. Therefore, a 'sanitary' condition ensures that there are no significant quantities of harmful microorganisms present, aligning with the primary goal of safeguarding public health.

Other aspects, such as dust and dirt, visible soil, and food particles, while important in maintaining cleanliness and hygiene, do not fully encapsulate the broader health implications associated with microbial contamination. Thus, achieving a sanitary state focuses specifically on the elimination of harmful microorganisms to ensure safety.