Which of the following is a suitable personal hygiene practice for food handlers?

Washing hands thoroughly before handling food is a fundamental personal hygiene practice for food handlers. This action is critical in preventing foodborne illnesses, as hands can carry harmful pathogens that contaminate food. Proper handwashing reduces the risk of transferring bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants to food, which can lead to serious health issues for consumers. When food handlers wash their hands properly—using soap and running water for at least 20 seconds—they significantly enhance food safety in their preparation environments.

The other practices are considered unsafe for food handling. Wearing jewelry can trap bacteria and debris, eating while prepping can introduce pathogens, and using a shared towel can spread germs, each compromising food safety. Therefore, thorough handwashing before handling food is essential for maintaining hygiene standards in food service settings.