Personal Hygiene
What is the first thing you should do before starting to prepare food in the kitchen?
Wash your hands.
What is cross-contamination?
The transfer of harmful bacteria or substances from one surface, food, or object to another.
What temperature range is known as the "Danger Zone" where bacteria can rapidly grow?
41°F to 135°F
What’s the difference between cleaning and sanitizing?
Cleaning removes dirt and debris, while sanitizing kills bacteria and other pathogens.
What should you do if you spill oil on the kitchen floor?
Clean it up immediately to prevent slips and falls.
True or False: You should wear gloves when handling ready-to-eat food if you have a cut on your hand.
True.
Why should raw meat be stored on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator?
To prevent juices from dripping onto other foods and causing cross-contamination.
At what minimum internal temperature should chicken be cooked to ensure it is safe to eat?
165°F
How often should kitchen surfaces be sanitized when preparing food?
After every use or whenever they become contaminated.
Why is it dangerous to leave pot handles sticking out over the edge of the stove?
Someone could accidentally bump into them and cause hot liquids or food to spill, leading to burns.
Why is it important to tie back long hair when working in the kitchen?
To prevent hair from contaminating the food.
What can result from cross-contamination in food preparation?
Foodborne Illness
True or False: You should leave cooked food out at room temperature for no more than 4 hours.
False (no more than 2 hours).
What is the chemical used to disinfect surfaces called?
Sanitizer.
True or False: Dull knives are safer to use than sharp knives.
False (dull knives require more force and can slip, leading to cuts).
What should you do if you are sick but scheduled to work in a kitchen?
Stay home to avoid spreading illness to others.
True or False: It’s safe to use the same knife for cutting raw chicken and vegetables if you rinse it with water between uses.
False.
What is the correct method to cool a large pot of hot soup quickly and safely?
Divide it into smaller containers and place in an ice bath or refrigerator.
True or False: It’s safe to store cleaning chemicals on the same shelf as food products.
False.
What is the main hazard associated with leaving wet towels or rags near a heat source?
They can catch fire.
Name two personal hygiene practices that help prevent foodborne illness.
Washing hands frequently, wearing clean uniforms, using hair restraints, keeping nails trimmed
What is the safest way to avoid cross-contamination when using cutting boards?
Use separate cutting boards for raw meat and other foods, or thoroughly clean and sanitize the board between uses.
Why is it important to regularly check the temperature of refrigerators and freezers in the kitchen?
To ensure they are maintaining safe temperatures to prevent bacterial growth.
Name one area of the kitchen that should be cleaned and sanitized daily.
Cutting boards, countertops, sinks, food prep areas
Name two common kitchen hazards and how you can prevent accidents related to them.
Example answers: Slippery floors (clean spills immediately), sharp knives (store properly and handle with care), hot surfaces (use oven mitts)