True or False: Proper hand washing protocols are essential in addition to using gloves when handling produce.

The statement that proper hand washing protocols are essential in addition to using gloves when handling produce is true. This is because hand washing serves as a critical step in food safety that can significantly reduce the risk of cross-contamination and the spread of foodborne pathogens.

While gloves provide a physical barrier between the hands and the food product, they can still become contaminated, particularly if they come into contact with surfaces or other foods. Therefore, it is essential that workers wash their hands thoroughly before putting on gloves, as well as after removing them, and whenever they potentially contaminate their hands during the food handling process. Proper hand washing is integral to ensuring that any pathogens present on hands are eliminated, providing an added layer of safety when handling fresh produce. This practice is consistent with HACCP principles, which emphasize the importance of maintaining hygiene and preventing contamination throughout the food preparation process.