Most Effective Way Of Preventing Foodborne Illness
Handwashing
Hands are the part of the body that are most exposed to microorganisms because they touch many things every day. Some diseases are spread when disease-causing microorganisms on a person's hands get into food that he or she touches. When the food is eaten, the microorganisms enter the body and cause foodborne illness. Thorough handwashing with hot, soapy water prevents bacteria from transferring from hands to foods.
Additional Information
- The "An Ounce of Prevention" Campaign (CDC)
- Clean: Wash Hands and Surfaces Often (FDA)
- Handwashing (FDA & NSTA)
- Sanitizing (FDA & NSTA)
- Clean and Sanitize (NFSEM 2006)
- Clean: Handwashing (www.FoodSafety.gov)
- Handwashing (CDC)
- Handwashing Decal Graphic (FSIS)
- See also: Clean Hands Coalition - National Clean Hands Week, Sept 16-22, 2007
Children's Activities
- The Children's Page
- Keep It Clean Puzzle (also available in PDF)
- Fight BAC!® Puppet Page (also available in PDF)
- Keep It Clean Song/Coloring Sheet
- Fight BAC!® Coloring Page (also available in PDF)
- Germs On The Run Coloring Page