What step is necessary for handling food after it has been cooked?

Using clean utensils and gloves during serving is essential for preventing cross-contamination and ensuring food safety. After food has been cooked, it is important to maintain its safety by avoiding any potential contact with harmful pathogens that may be present on unclean surfaces, utensils, or hands. Clean utensils help to serve the food hygienically, and wearing gloves provides an additional layer of protection, ensuring that the food remains uncontaminated.

By employing this practice, food handlers can significantly reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses, which is crucial in any food service environment, including Panda Express. Other options, such as serving food uncovered, utilizing only one set of utensils, or serving directly from the cooking vessel, do not adhere to proper food safety standards and increase the risk of contamination. Keeping food safe after cooking is a fundamental aspect of food handling that protects both the consumer and the establishment’s reputation.