What is the definition of "sneeze guards" in food safety?

The term "sneeze guards" refers to physical barriers that protect food from contamination caused by respiratory droplets, particularly from customers or staff sneezing or coughing. These barriers are typically made of clear acrylic or glass and are designed to create a protective shield over self-serve food items, such as salad bars, buffets, or deli counters.

The primary purpose of sneeze guards is to safeguard food from airborne contaminants, ensuring that the food remains safe for consumption. This is especially crucial in environments where food is exposed and accessible to the public, as it helps reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses linked to contamination.

The other options present alternate concepts related to food safety, but they do not accurately define sneeze guards. Opaque covers address the issue of UV ray protection, temperature-controlled enclosures are relevant for food storage conditions, and signage is essential for communicating safety protocols, but none of these serve the same protective function against respiratory contamination as sneeze guards do.