What should be done with preset, unwrapped utensils that appear to be unused after guests have left the table?

Preset, unwrapped utensils that appear to be unused after guests have left the table should be cleaned and sanitized before being reused. This practice is essential to ensure food safety and minimize the risk of contamination. Even if the utensils look unused, they may still be exposed to bacteria, pathogens, or contaminants from the surrounding environment, including other diners, table surfaces, and airflow.

Cleaning and sanitizing these utensils not only eliminates potential contaminants but also aligns with food safety regulations and best practices within the hospitality industry. This approach enhances the overall hygiene standards of the establishment, helping to protect the health of future guests.

Using a clean napkin to wrap the utensils may not effectively remove any contaminants, and leaving them for the next guest can pose a risk to their safety, as they might harbor germs or bacteria. Wiping off the utensils without thorough cleaning and sanitizing also fails to adequately address potential microbial presence.