What practice enhances food safety when serving food?

Washing hands before handling food is critical in enhancing food safety because it helps prevent the spread of harmful bacteria and pathogens that can be present on hands. Proper handwashing removes contaminants that can be transferred to food during preparation or serving, significantly reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses. This practice is a fundamental aspect of personal hygiene in food handling, ensuring that the food served is safe for consumption.

In contrast, keeping food at room temperature for extended periods can promote the growth of bacteria, particularly in perishable items. Using the same utensils for raw and cooked foods can lead to cross-contamination, where harmful bacteria from raw items contaminate the cooked foods. Serving food in large batches can also increase the risk of unsafe temperatures being maintained, further compromising food safety. Hence, regular handwashing is a simple yet essential practice that directly contributes to safer food handling.