Which practice is essential for maintaining hygiene in food handling?

Regular handwashing is a fundamental practice for maintaining hygiene in food handling. It is critical because hands can be contaminated with pathogens throughout the food preparation process, whether from surfaces, other foods, or even from the natural oils and bacteria on the skin. Proper handwashing significantly reduces the risk of foodborne illnesses by removing contaminants before food is handled, prepared, or consumed.

While wearing gloves can provide a barrier between hands and food, it does not eliminate the need for handwashing since gloves can also become contaminated. Using pre-packaged foods exclusively does not address the potential for contamination that may occur during handling or preparation. Cooking food at low temperatures does not adequately eliminate harmful bacteria; it is generally essential to cook food to recommended temperatures to ensure safety.

Thus, regular handwashing is the most consistently effective way to ensure hygiene is maintained in food handling, making it an essential practice for food safety.