What is the first step in preventing foodborne illness?

Understanding proper food handling procedures is the foundational step in preventing foodborne illness. This knowledge equips food handlers with essential skills and guidelines for safely preparing, cooking, storing, and serving food. Awareness of food safety practices—such as the necessary temperatures for cooking proteins, the importance of cross-contamination prevention, and the regulations surrounding food storage—creates a robust defense against the pathogens that can cause foodborne illnesses.

By first grasping these principles, individuals are better positioned to implement other crucial safety measures, such as proper cleaning techniques, appropriate cooking methods, and effective personal hygiene practices like handwashing. Without a solid understanding of proper food handling protocols, even committed efforts in cleaning or cooking may not adequately mitigate the risk of contamination and illness.