Ready-to-eat foods can be handled with bare hands. True or False?

Handling ready-to-eat foods with bare hands is not permitted as it greatly increases the risk of foodborne illnesses. Ready-to-eat foods, such as salads, deli meats, and baked goods that don’t require further cooking, can easily be contaminated with harmful bacteria and viruses if they come into contact with unwashed hands.

Food service guidelines emphasize using utensils, gloves, or other barriers when handling these types of foods to ensure they remain safe for consumption. This is a critical practice in food safety as it helps prevent cross-contamination and protects the health of consumers. It's vital to adhere to these standards in order to minimize risks and maintain a safe food environment.