When should food handlers wash their hands?

Food handlers should wash their hands before preparing food and after using the restroom to ensure proper hygiene and prevent foodborne illnesses. Handwashing before food preparation is crucial as it removes any dirt, bacteria, or pathogens that could contaminate the food. Washing hands after using the restroom is equally important because it eliminates any germs that may have been transferred during that process, reducing the risk of cross-contamination during food handling.

The timing of handwashing plays a critical role in food safety. Regular and strategic handwashing helps maintain a safe food environment and protects consumers from potential health hazards. Other times when handwashing is essential include after handling raw meat, poultry, or seafood, before eating, and after cleaning surfaces, but the options provided focus specifically on the critical points which are before food preparation and after restroom use.