What is the proper handwashing sequence before handling food?

• A. Apply soap, wet hands, scrub for at least 20 seconds, rinse, and dry with a clean towel or air dry.
• B. Wet hands, dry with a towel, apply soap, rinse.
• C. Wet hands, apply soap, scrub for at least 20 seconds, rinse, and dry with a clean towel or air dry.
• D. Wet hands, rinse, apply soap, scrub for 20 seconds, dry.

Answer: (C)

Washing hands in the right order is about preparing, cleaning, and drying effectively to remove germs before handling food. Start by wetting hands with clean running water so the soap can lather and lift dirt and oils. Then apply soap and scrub for at least 20 seconds to loosen and remove microbes from all surfaces, including between fingers and under the nails. Rinse thoroughly to carry away the loosened germs, and finally dry with a clean towel or air dry to prevent spreading microbes that thrive on damp skin. This sequence ensures hands are truly clean before touching food, reducing the risk of contamination.