Texas Food Safety Managers Practice Test

Which practice is not allowed for food handlers when preparing meals?

1. Wearing a clean uniform

2. Using gloves for all tasks

3. Handling food with bare hands

4. Washing hands frequently

The correct answer is: Handling food with bare hands

Handling food with bare hands is not permitted for food handlers when preparing meals because this practice significantly increases the risk of foodborne illness. Food handlers can transmit pathogens from their skin to the food they are preparing if they are not using protective barriers, such as gloves or utensils. Health guidelines emphasize minimizing direct contact with food to uphold safety standards and prevent contamination. In contrast, wearing a clean uniform, using gloves for food preparation tasks, and washing hands frequently are all practices designed to maintain hygiene and ensure food safety. Clean uniforms reduce the risk of transferring contaminants from clothing to food, gloves act as a protective barrier against direct hand contact, and frequent handwashing is essential for removing any potential pathogens before and during food preparation.