How often should food workers wash their hands when handling food?

Food workers should wash their hands regularly throughout their shift to maintain proper hygiene and prevent foodborne illnesses. This practice is essential because hands can easily become contaminated during various stages of food handling, whether it's preparing, cooking, or serving food. Regular handwashing helps to remove bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens that may be transmitted from food, surfaces, or even from touching one's face or hair.

By washing hands at critical times, such as before handling food, after using the restroom, after touching raw meat, and after any activity that could contaminate the hands, food workers create a safer environment for food preparation and service. This routine reduces the risk of cross-contamination and helps protect public health.

In contrast, washing hands only at the beginning of a shift, only when switching tasks, or just once at the end of the shift does not adequately address the risk of contamination that can occur at multiple points during food handling. Regular handwashing is a fundamental practice that ensures food safety and hygiene standards are met throughout the entire working period.