Michigan Food Safety Management Practice Test

Why is it important to wash hands after handling money?

1. To prevent cross-contamination

2. To reduce the temperature of food

3. To increase food preservation

4. To improve service speed

The correct answer is: To prevent cross-contamination

Washing hands after handling money is crucial primarily to prevent cross-contamination. Money can carry various pathogens, including bacteria and viruses, from numerous surfaces that it comes into contact with. When food workers handle cash and then touch food, utensils, or food preparation surfaces without washing their hands, they risk transferring these harmful microorganisms to those items. This type of contamination can lead to foodborne illnesses, making it essential to maintain proper hand hygiene in any food handling environment. The other options do not directly relate to the specific hygiene concerns associated with handling money. Reducing food temperature, improving preservation, and enhancing service speed do not address the critical hygiene practices needed to safeguard food safety after handling potentially contaminated items like money.