What is a necessary action before preparing food?

Washing hands is a crucial step before preparing food because it significantly reduces the risk of foodborne illnesses. Proper handwashing helps eliminate germs and bacteria that can be transferred from hands to food, surfaces, and utensils, posing a serious health risk. In the food handling process, hands can become contaminated from various sources, including raw ingredients or touching surfaces that may harbor pathogens.

Throughout food preparation activities, it is essential to maintain hygiene practices, particularly in washing hands at appropriate times, such as before starting food preparation, after handling raw meat, or after using the restroom. This practice plays a vital role in ensuring food safety and protecting the health of consumers.

While reading the menu, checking for allergies, and gathering ingredients are all important aspects of food preparation, they do not address the immediate need for hand hygiene, which is a critical first step in preventing cross-contamination and ensuring a safe food handling environment.