What should food handlers do when handling raw meats?

When handling raw meats, it is crucial for food handlers to use separate cutting boards and utensils. This practice helps to prevent cross-contamination, which can occur when harmful bacteria from raw meats are transferred to other foods, such as vegetables or cooked items. Using dedicated tools and surfaces for raw meats creates a barrier that reduces the risk of foodborne illness and ensures that the food remains safe for consumption.

While washing hands with soap and water is an important practice and should be done before and after handling raw foods, it alone does not address the issue of cross-contamination that can occur through shared surfaces and utensils. Similarly, cooking all items immediately after handling does not mitigate the risk if cross-contamination has already taken place; this practice focuses more on temperature control rather than safe food preparation procedures. Therefore, the use of separate cutting boards and utensils is essential for maintaining food safety.