Which practice is essential for maintaining hygiene when handling food?

Frequent handwashing is essential for maintaining hygiene when handling food because it effectively removes dirt, bacteria, and pathogens from the hands, which can contaminate food items. Proper handwashing practices are crucial in preventing foodborne illnesses, as hands come into contact with various surfaces and ingredients throughout the food preparation process. This practice should occur before handling food, after using the restroom, and after any activity that may introduce contaminants.

While wearing a mask, using gloves, and wearing an apron can contribute to overall food safety, they do not replace the need for effective handwashing. Gloves can be a barrier but can still carry residual contaminants if hands are not washed beforehand. Similarly, masks primarily protect against airborne contaminants and do not address hand cleanliness, and aprons help keep clothes clean, but do not ensure that food handlers' hands are sanitary. Therefore, emphasizing the importance of frequent handwashing is critical in any food handling SOP.