What is the first step in proper handwashing for food safety?

The first step in proper handwashing is to wet your hands and arms with running water. This foundational step is critical because it prepares the skin for effective cleaning. By using running water, you help to remove dirt and debris from the surface of your skin, which is essential prior to applying soap. This initial action ensures that the soap can work more effectively by allowing it to penetrate and lift away contaminants and microorganisms when applied afterward.

Choosing this step first sets the stage for the following processes in handwashing. After wetting your hands, you would apply soap, create a lather, and scrub for an adequate amount of time to ensure that all potential pathogens are removed. Each of the subsequent steps relies on the effectiveness of properly wetting your hands initially. Therefore, beginning with this essential step is crucial to achieving overall food safety through effective hand hygiene.