When should cooking utensils be washed?

Cooking utensils should be washed after each use, particularly when switching between raw and cooked foods, to prevent cross-contamination. This practice is crucial in food safety, as raw foods, such as meats or unwashed produce, can carry harmful bacteria or pathogens. If the same utensils are used for both raw and cooked foods without proper cleaning in between, it poses a significant risk of transferring those harmful microorganisms to the cooked items, which can lead to foodborne illnesses.

Frequent washing during food preparation helps ensure that utensils are sanitized and safe for handling and serving food. It not only maintains hygiene but also demonstrates a commitment to food safety standards, which is essential in any food-handling environment. This rigorous cleaning protocol is part of the overall practices that contribute to a safe food preparation process.