Utah Food Safety Practice Test

Which behavior is likely to contaminate food?

1. Wearing hairnets during food preparation.

2. Running your fingers through your hair.

3. Using utensils for food handling.

4. Keeping nails trimmed and clean.

The correct answer is: Running your fingers through your hair.

Running your fingers through your hair is a behavior that can easily lead to food contamination. Hair can carry oils, dirt, and microorganisms, all of which could transfer to food if touched. This action makes it possible for harmful pathogens to be introduced into food items if proper hygiene practices are not followed. On the other hand, the other choices contribute positively to food safety. Wearing hairnets during food preparation prevents hair from falling into food, minimizing the risk of physical contaminants. Using utensils for food handling ensures that hands are not directly transferring bacteria or other contaminants to the food. Keeping nails trimmed and clean is essential because it reduces the likelihood of dirt or bacteria hiding under long or unclean nails, which could also contaminate food.