Which practice contributes to ensuring food safety during preparation?

Washing hands after handling food is a crucial practice that significantly contributes to food safety during preparation. When food handlers wash their hands, they remove harmful bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens that may have been transferred from raw foods, surfaces, or equipment. This practice helps to prevent cross-contamination, which is a leading cause of foodborne illnesses.

Maintaining proper hand hygiene before and during food preparation ensures that food handlers do not inadvertently introduce contaminants to the food they are preparing. It is recommended that food handlers wash their hands at key moments, such as after handling raw meat, touching their face or hair, or using the restroom, to maintain a safe food preparation environment.