What should be a primary focus during food preparation to ensure safety?

Maintaining proper hygiene practices is critical during food preparation because it directly impacts food safety and the prevention of foodborne illnesses. Good hygiene helps to minimize the risk of contaminating food with harmful bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens. This involves a range of practices, such as washing hands frequently, using clean utensils and surfaces, and ensuring that food is stored at safe temperatures. Effective hygiene practices not only protect the food being prepared but also safeguard the health of those consuming the food.

While presentation, seasoning, and selecting fresh ingredients are important aspects of food preparation, they do not address the foundational need for hygiene in preventing illness. Prioritizing hygiene ensures that even the most beautifully presented and seasoned dish can be safely enjoyed without risking health due to contamination during the preparation process.