Michigan Food Safety Management Practice Test

When should hands be washed after handling food?

1. Only after preparing salads

2. After baking

3. After handling raw food

4. Before cleanup

The correct answer is: After handling raw food

Hands should be washed after handling raw food due to the high risk of cross-contamination from foodborne pathogens. Raw foods, particularly meats, poultry, and seafood, can harbor harmful bacteria such as Salmonella or E. coli. Washing hands thoroughly with soap and water after coming into contact with these foods helps to prevent the spread of these pathogens to other surfaces, food items, and ultimately, to consumers. Although washing hands is important at various times throughout food preparation, the act of handling raw food particularly necessitates hand washing to mitigate any potential risks associated with these contaminants. Regular hand washing practices are essential in maintaining food safety and ensuring that food prepared for consumption is safe.