How often must hands be washed thoroughly, according to New York City Health Code?

Hands must be washed thoroughly multiple times throughout the day, especially in a food handling environment. This practice is essential to prevent the spread of foodborne illnesses and to maintain hygiene standards. Although the specific frequency can depend on various factors, such as the type of food being prepared and individual handling practices, washing hands at least three times a day aligns with recommended food safety protocols. This ensures that food handlers consistently reduce the risk of contamination and maintain a safe environment for food preparation and service. It's critical for food handlers to wash their hands after specific activities, such as using the restroom, handling raw food, or touching their face, which further emphasizes that regular handwashing is integral to food safety, making three times a day a baseline for effective hygiene practices.