What is a simple precaution for food handlers regarding food safety?

Focusing on food safety, the choice of washing all food is a commonly emphasized precaution for food handlers. Washing fruits and vegetables helps remove dirt, bacteria, and pesticides, which can be harmful if ingested. This practice is essential because it minimizes the risk of foodborne illness caused by contaminants on the surface of food items. The act of washing not only ensures cleaner food but also provides a layer of protection against potential pathogens that might be present.

Other options, while relevant to food safety, have specific contexts and nuances that differentiate them from the broad and universally applicable recommendation of washing food. Keeping food cold is critical for certain items but does not apply to all foods. Discarding expired food is important, but this does not influence food preparation practices directly as washing does. Avoiding cross-contamination is essential, especially in a mixed food preparation scenario, but it is more of an overarching practice rather than a simple action that can be universally applied to all food items being handled. Thus, the emphasis on washing all food as a fundamental precaution stands out as an essential practice for maintaining food safety standards.