To avoid cross-contamination, what should be done frequently?

Washing hands frequently throughout your shift is crucial for avoiding cross-contamination. Hands are one of the primary means of transferring pathogens and contaminants to food. By washing hands regularly, particularly after handling raw food, using the restroom, or touching anything that could introduce bacteria to the food, you significantly reduce the risk of spreading harmful microorganisms. This practice aligns with the principles of food safety, as it helps to ensure that food remains safe for consumption by minimizing potential contamination from handlers.

While wearing gloves can help, they can also create a false sense of security; if hands are not washed before putting on gloves, contamination can still occur. Likewise, using the same cutting board for different types of food, particularly raw meats and vegetables, can lead to cross-contamination if the board is not properly sanitized in between uses. Lastly, storing all food in the same container can lead to cross-contamination as different food items may have varying temperature and storage needs. Frequent handwashing, therefore, plays a pivotal role in maintaining overall hygiene and food safety.