Personal hygiene in a food processing plant

PERSONAL HYGIENE IN FOOD PROCESSING PLANT Personal hygiene refers to the practices that individuals undertake to maintain their cleanliness and prevent the spread of diseases. Why is it important in food processing plant? According to the World Health Organization, unsafe food is responsible for 600 million cases and 420, 000 deaths each year globally. It is mentioned that food handlers can transmit many diseases. Hence, it is essential that food handlers must maintain a high degree of personal cleanliness. Food handler is a person who directly mangages in the handling of packed or unpacked food, food utensils, equipment or who handles surfaces likely to come into contact with food for a food business. Source: Pal and Mahendra, 2015 Wash your hands frequently Hands should be washed thoroughly with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds before starting work, after handling any contaminated material, and after using the restroom. Wear clean and appropriate clothing Employees should wear clean clothing that is appropriate for the job they are doing. Avoid wearing jewelry or clothing with pockets that can collect dirt or other contaminants. Food safetyFood safetyUse hairnets and other protective gear All employees should wear hairnets or other protective gear, such as beard covers, to prevent loose hairs or debris from falling into food products. Avoid touching your face or hair touching Employees should avoid their face or hair during work to prevent the spread of bacteria. Food safetyFood safetyAvoid eating, drinking, or smoking in food processing areas Employees should not eat, drink, or smoke in to prevent contamination of food products. food processing areas Report any symptoms of illness Employees should report any symptoms of illness to their supervisor immediately and should not come to work if they are sick. Food safetyFood safety