What is the first step in the food safety process?

The first step in the food safety process is cleaning. This step is crucial because it establishes a safe and sanitary environment for handling food. It involves washing hands, cleaning surfaces, and ensuring that all utensils and equipment are free from contaminants. Proper cleaning prevents cross-contamination and reduces the risk of foodborne illnesses.

In the context of food safety, cleaning should occur before any food preparation, cooking, or storage activities take place. Handling food without first ensuring that the area and tools are clean can lead to the introduction of harmful bacteria or pathogens. Therefore, starting with cleaning sets a solid foundation for the subsequent steps in food safety, including preparation, cooking, and storage. Each of these processes depends on the initial step of cleaning to ensure that food remains safe throughout its handling.