When must food handlers wash their hands?

Food handlers must wash their hands before and after touching raw food to prevent cross-contamination and ensure food safety. Raw foods, especially meats and seafood, can carry harmful pathogens that could contaminate other foods if proper handwashing practices are not followed. By washing their hands before handling raw food, food handlers minimize the risk of transferring bacteria to foods that will not be cooked. Similarly, washing hands after handling raw food is essential to remove any potential contaminants before touching ready-to-eat foods. This practice is a fundamental part of food safety training and is vital in maintaining a safe food handling environment.