What action can lead to food contamination?

Touching your face after handling food can indeed lead to food contamination. When individuals handle food, they can transfer bacteria and other pathogens from their hands to their facial surfaces. If they then touch food or food preparation areas after making contact with their face, they risk contaminating the food with these pathogens. This is especially crucial in a food service environment, where maintaining proper hygiene is vital to prevent foodborne illnesses.

In contrast, actions like wiping your hands on a clean towel, storing food properly, and wearing gloves while preparing food are practices designed to prevent contamination and promote food safety. Wiping hands on a clean towel can be safe if the towel is truly clean and properly laundered. Proper food storage prevents cross-contamination and maintains safe temperature conditions for food. Wearing gloves is also a method to minimize hand contact with food, as long as gloves are changed regularly and used appropriately.