Is it advisable for food employees to contact exposed, ready-to-eat foods with their bare hands?

The practice of contacting exposed, ready-to-eat foods with bare hands is not recommended due to the risk of cross-contamination and foodborne illness. Ready-to-eat foods, which do not require further cooking or processing before consumption, are particularly vulnerable to contamination from pathogens that may be present on human skin.

Washing hands regularly and using utensils, gloves, or other barriers are essential measures to ensure food safety. Proper hygiene practices help minimize the transmission of bacteria, viruses, and other harmful microorganisms. By avoiding direct contact with bare hands, food employees can maintain safer food handling standards and protect consumer health.