What is the correct handwashing procedure before handling ready-to-drink beverages?

• A. Use soap, scrub for at least 20 seconds, rinse, dry with disposable towel, and sanitize hands before touching cups.
• B. Quickly rinse with water only.
• C. Use sanitizer gel only, no soap.
• D. Wipe hands with a cloth and proceed.

Answer: (A)

Thorough hand hygiene is about physically removing dirt and microbes with soap and water, then drying properly before handling ready-to-drink beverages. Wet hands, apply soap, and scrub all surfaces—including between fingers and under nails—for about 20 seconds to break up oils and carry microbes away. Rinse with running water and dry completely with a disposable towel, using that towel to turn off the faucet so you don’t recontaminate your hands. After drying, if your facility relies on extra protection, you can apply an alcohol-based sanitizer as a final step before touching cups. This sequence is more effective than a quick water rinse, which may leave germs and oils behind; sanitizer alone isn’t reliable on dirty hands; and wiping with a cloth can spread contaminants. Following this method helps ensure beverages stay safe and clean.