What practice is essential for maintaining good hygiene in food handling?

Frequent hand washing is essential for maintaining good hygiene in food handling because it effectively removes dirt, bacteria, and other harmful pathogens that can be present on hands. Proper hand washing techniques include using soap and clean, running water, and washing for at least 20 seconds, which helps to significantly reduce the likelihood of foodborne illnesses.

While wearing gloves can be a good practice, it does not replace the need for hand washing, as gloves can become contaminated and may not be a substitute for the hygiene benefits of clean hands. Using strong perfume may mask odors but does not have any bearing on hygiene or food safety. Additionally, avoiding all contact with food is not practical or realistic in food handling, as it's necessary to prepare and serve food safely. Regular and effective hand washing is a fundamental practice in the prevention of food contamination.