Which safety step is essential before handling raw proteins?

• A. Ensure the table is clean with sanitizer.
• B. Wash hands and wear disposable gloves or use clean utensils; avoid cross-contact.
• C. Turn down the heat on the stove.
• D. Offer a beverage to the guest.

Answer: (B)

Before touching raw proteins, focus on hygiene and preventing cross-contamination. Raw meats can carry bacteria that cause foodborne illness, so washing your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds removes germs that could transfer to food, utensils, or surfaces. Using disposable gloves or clean utensils helps keep raw proteins separate from ready-to-eat items, reducing the chance that bacteria move onto foods you’ll serve or eat. It’s important to note that gloves don’t replace handwashing—hands should be washed, gloves used as appropriate, and gloves changed if you touch something dirty or switch tasks.

Other steps like sanitizing the table or turning down stove heat aren’t the essential, initial safety actions for handling raw proteins, and offering a beverage isn’t related to safety.