How should food handlers manage sneezing and coughing around food?

Food handlers should avoid sneezing and coughing around food because these actions can contaminate food with harmful pathogens. When a person sneezes or coughs, respiratory droplets are released into the air. If these droplets land on food or food contact surfaces, they can introduce bacteria and viruses, increasing the risk of foodborne illnesses.

By actively avoiding sneezing and coughing in proximity to food, handlers help maintain a sanitary environment and protect public health. Additional practices may include covering the mouth and nose with a tissue or an elbow if sneezing or coughing cannot be avoided. Other options, like relying solely on handkerchiefs or wearing a face shield, are not comprehensive solutions to managing respiratory hygiene in food preparation areas and do not fully prevent the potential contamination of food.