When should food employees wash their hands?

Food employees should wash their hands at critical times to prevent the spread of foodborne illnesses. The correct answer emphasizes the importance of washing hands before and after key activities that could introduce pathogens into food.

Washing hands before preparing food is necessary to eliminate any bacteria or contaminants that might be on the hands from previous activities. After handling raw meat, handwashing is essential to prevent cross-contamination, as raw meat can carry harmful bacteria that, if transferred to other foods, can lead to foodborne illness. Additionally, washing hands after using the restroom is crucial because it helps remove pathogens that can easily spread to food and surfaces.

This comprehensive approach to handwashing ensures that food employees maintain high hygiene standards, safeguarding public health and food safety.