Sanitation Certification Practice Test

How should food handlers prevent the spread of giardiasis?

1. Using improperly treated water

2. Washing hands regularly

3. Freezing foods

4. Using raw ingredients

The correct answer is: Washing hands regularly

Washing hands regularly is crucial for food handlers to prevent the spread of giardiasis, which is caused by the Giardia parasite. This parasite can be transmitted through contaminated food and water and can be present on surfaces that have come into contact with feces from infected individuals or animals. Regular hand washing, particularly after using the bathroom, changing diapers, or handling raw foods, significantly reduces the likelihood of transferring the Giardia parasites from hands to food. By maintaining proper hand hygiene, food handlers create a barrier against the contamination of food items, thereby minimizing the risk of spreading giardiasis in food service settings. The other options do not effectively address the prevention of giardiasis. For example, using improperly treated water poses a direct risk of contamination, as it could contain the parasite. Freezing foods does not eliminate Giardia, as the parasite can survive freezing temperatures. Lastly, using raw ingredients, particularly those from contaminated sources, can also lead to the spread of parasites and should be handled with care. Hands-on hygiene remains the most effective preventive measure in this context.