How to Keep Those Hands Hygienic
Return to Food Safety
Preventing foodborne illnesses is important for the health of the entire
family. During this busy holiday season, symptoms can often be mistaken for the
flu. A major factor in preventing foodborne illnesses is keeping hands clean.
Hands should be washed before beginning any food preparation, as well as after
handling raw meats, fish and poultry. Here’s how to clean hands properly:
- Wet hands with warm, running water and apply soap.
- Rub hands together well to make a lather, and scrub all surfaces. Pay
special attention to between those fingers and under jewelry. Continue for 20
seconds, or while you sing “Happy Birthday” twice.
- Rinse well under warm running water.
- Dry hands thoroughly using paper towels. Use the paper towel to turn off the
faucet and to turn the door knob, if necessary.