What is the most effective way to prevent bacteria from spreading to others?

Washing hands frequently and avoiding contact with ready-to-eat foods using bare hands are essential practices for preventing the spread of bacteria. Handwashing removes pathogens that can be present on the skin, which are easily transferred to food. This is especially important in a food service environment where cross-contamination can occur quickly.

Using proper handwashing techniques—scrubbing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds—effectively cleanses hands of bacteria and viruses that may be present. Furthermore, avoiding direct contact with ready-to-eat foods minimizes the risk of transferring harmful microorganisms from hands to food.

This practice is significantly more effective than relying solely on antibacterial wipes, which may not eliminate all bacteria or may not be used as frequently. Serving food immediately can help maintain safety, but it does not directly address the issue of preventing bacterial spread beforehand. Wearing a mask offers some protection in certain contexts, but it is not specifically targeted to preventing foodborne illness transmission in the same way that handwashing and avoiding bare-hand contact with food do. Thus, the handwashing and avoiding bare-hand contact with ready-to-eat foods is the most effective approach for preventing bacteria from spreading.