What is the minimum hand washing time required for BOH food safety?

The minimum hand washing time required for back-of-house (BOH) food safety is 20 seconds. This duration is crucial because it allows sufficient time for soap to effectively remove bacteria and other contaminants from the skin. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other food safety authorities recommend washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds to ensure that all surfaces of the hands, including between the fingers and under the nails, are thoroughly cleaned. This practice significantly reduces the risk of foodborne illnesses and maintains a safe environment for food preparation.

Shorter durations, such as 10 seconds or even 30 seconds, do not adequately address the thorough cleaning necessary to eliminate pathogens. Therefore, the 20-second time frame strikes the appropriate balance between effectiveness in removing contaminants and practicality in a fast-paced kitchen setting.