When should a food handler wash their hands?

The correct answer emphasizes the critical points at which a food handler should wash their hands to ensure food safety and prevent contamination. Washing hands before preparing food is essential to eliminate any pathogens or residues that may transfer to food during preparation. Additionally, handwashing after handling raw foods is crucial because raw foods, especially meats, can harbor harmful bacteria that can contaminate other food items or surfaces if proper hygiene is not maintained.

Furthermore, washing hands after using the restroom helps prevent the transfer of any microorganisms that may be present on the hands to food or food preparation areas. This practice is crucial in maintaining a clean environment in food service and preparing, as handwashing is a primary defense against foodborne illness.

In contrast, washing hands only when dirt is visible neglects the numerous ways in which hands can become contaminated without showing visible dirt. Limiting handwashing to just after using the restroom, as suggested in one of the choices, fails to address the importance of hand hygiene in other critical moments during food handling. Lastly, waiting to wash hands only at the end of a work shift ignores the ongoing risks of contamination that can occur throughout the day, allowing for the potential spread of pathogens that may lead to foodborne illnesses.

In summary, the practice highlighted in the