Why is staff personal hygiene important in food safety?

Staff personal hygiene is crucial in food safety because it directly contributes to preventing contamination of food from employees. When employees follow strict personal hygiene practices—such as washing hands regularly, wearing clean uniforms, and maintaining overall cleanliness—they greatly reduce the risk of introducing harmful pathogens or allergens into the food being prepared and served. Any lapse in personal hygiene can lead to the transfer of bacteria, viruses, or other contaminants from the staff to the food, which can pose serious health risks to customers and lead to foodborne illnesses. This emphasis on personal hygiene is part of a broader set of food safety protocols designed to ensure that food remains safe for consumption.