When serving food, what is a key hygiene practice to follow?

The right choice highlights the importance of maintaining proper hygiene during food service. Ensuring that utensils do not come into contact with food protects against contamination. This practice helps to prevent the transfer of bacteria or pathogens from surfaces, hands, or other food items to the food being served, which is crucial in maintaining food safety standards.

This measure not only safeguards the health of customers but also aligns with food safety regulations that emphasize the importance of clean food handling. By using separate utensils for serving food, an establishment can effectively minimize the risk of cross-contamination, thereby maintaining a higher level of hygiene and food quality.

The other choices compromise hygiene principles by either allowing potential contamination through utensil handles or suggesting practices that could lead to unsanitary conditions.