Ontario Food Handler Certification Practice Exam

What is the primary reason for washing hands before handling food?

1. To improve grip on utensils

2. To cool down the hands

3. To avoid cross-contamination

4. To soften the skin

The correct answer is: To avoid cross-contamination

Washing hands before handling food is crucial primarily to avoid cross-contamination. Cross-contamination occurs when harmful microorganisms or allergens are transferred from one surface or food to another, which can happen easily if hands are not properly cleaned. When preparing food, hands can come into contact with a variety of surfaces, including raw meat, dairy, or even unwashed vegetables, all of which can harbor pathogens that may lead to foodborne illnesses. By thoroughly washing hands with soap and water, you significantly reduce the chance of transferring these harmful substances to the food you are preparing, ensuring a safer environment for food consumption. The other options do not directly relate to the safety of food handling and do not contribute to reducing the risk of foodborne illness. Improving grip, cooling down the hands, or softening the skin may be incidental benefits but they do not impact the health and safety protocols that are essential when handling food.