How often should food service workers wash their hands?

Food service workers should wash their hands after using the restroom and before handling food to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses. Proper handwashing is crucial in the food service industry because hands can easily transfer harmful bacteria and viruses to food, surfaces, and other employees. By washing hands thoroughly with soap and water at critical times—such as after using the restroom and before starting to handle food—workers help ensure that they do not contaminate food with pathogens that could lead to illness.

The requirement for handwashing is guided by food safety regulations, which emphasize maintaining hygiene to protect public health. This systematic approach helps create a safer food handling environment and exemplifies good practices in the food service industry.