What should food handlers do if they are not feeling well?

If food handlers are not feeling well, the best course of action is to notify a supervisor and stay away from food. This is crucial for maintaining food safety and preventing the potential spread of illness to customers and other staff members. When food handlers are symptomatic—experiencing nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or other contagious conditions—it poses a significant risk of contaminating the food, which can lead to foodborne illnesses.

By notifying a supervisor, the situation can be managed appropriately, possibly involving the need for the food handler to take time off to recover, and ensuring that any required cleaning and health protocols are followed to protect the safety of the food supply. This proactive approach helps maintain a safe environment in the food establishment and demonstrates a commitment to health and safety standards in food handling.