Texas Food Safety Managers Practice Test

What should food handlers do after handling raw meat?

1. Use gloves only for further food handling.

2. Wash hands with soap and water.

3. Rinse hands under cold water.

4. Wipe hands with a dry cloth.

The correct answer is: Wash hands with soap and water.

After handling raw meat, food handlers should wash their hands with soap and water. This practice is essential for preventing cross-contamination, as raw meat can carry harmful pathogens such as Salmonella or E. coli. Proper handwashing helps remove any bacteria or contaminants that may have been transferred to the hands during the handling of the meat. Using soap in combination with water effectively breaks down and removes grease, food particles, and pathogens. Thorough handwashing should involve scrubbing the entire hand surface for at least 20 seconds, rinsing in clean water, and drying with a clean cloth or paper towel. This step significantly reduces the risk of foodborne illness, protecting both food handlers and consumers. While using gloves may seem like a safer option for food handling, it does not replace the need for handwashing after handling raw meat. Gloves can also become contaminated and may give a false sense of security if hands are not washed properly. Other options like rinsing hands under cold water or wiping them with a dry cloth are ineffective for removing pathogens and do not ensure that hands are properly sanitized before handling other foods.