Personal Hygiene
Related Terms
Non-Latex Gloves Usage
Some TXDSHS-regulated establishments prefer nitrile or vinyl gloves to prevent latex allergies. S...
Read MoreCross-Contact
The transfer of allergens from one food or surface to another, similar to cross-contamination but...
Read MoreCross-Contamination
The unintentional transfer of bacteria or allergens from one surface or food product to another. ...
Read MoreEmployee Meal Policy
Some establishments permit staff meals or drinks under strict guidelines (e.g., no free alcohol, ...
Read MoreBare-Hand Contact
Direct touching of ready-to-eat foods without gloves or utensils. TXDSHS typically prohibits this...
Read MoreFood Allergy
An immune response to proteins in specific foods (e.g., peanuts, shellfish); can cause serious re...
Read MoreContaminated Equipment
Utensils, cutting boards, or machines harboring pathogens or allergens. Food handlers must wash, ...
Read MoreTablet Self-Ordering Stations
Kiosks where customers select menu items. TXDSHS recommends cleaning touchscreens regularly. TABC...
Read MoreFood Contact Surfaces
Any surface that directly contacts food (cutting boards, prep tables). Food handler rules mandate...
Read MoreTable-Side Preparation
Made-at-the-table dishes (e.g., guacamole, Caesar salad). TXDSHS states staff must bring sanitati...
Read MoreShared Plate Cross-Contamination
Occurs when multiple diners share dishes, risking allergen or pathogen transfer. Staff should pro...
Read MoreEmployee Drink Container Rules
Some kitchens allow drinks in covered cups to prevent spills into food; TXDSHS mandates storing t...
Read MoreHair Restraint Requirement
TXDSHS mandates hats, hairnets, or similar coverings to prevent hair from contaminating food or s...
Read MoreGel Sanitizer Standards
Hand sanitizers can complement but not replace hand washing in most TXDSHS rules; TABC also notes...
Read MoreHand Washing Procedure
The correct sequence: wet hands, apply soap, scrub 10–15 seconds, rinse, and dry with a single-us...
Read MoreSampler Platters
Multiple food items on one plate; risk of cross-contamination if raw or allergen-containing items...
Read MoreFood Handler Certification
A state-approved credential ensuring individuals understand basic food safety practices. In Texas...
Read MorePest Control
Methods to prevent or eliminate rodents, insects, or other pests in food establishments. TXDSHS r...
Read MoreService Animals
Dogs or miniature horses trained to assist individuals with disabilities; TXDSHS allows them in f...
Read MoreIce Bin Protocol
Keeping ice used in drinks separate from ice used to chill food or store bottles. Food handlers m...
Read MoreObservational Checklist
A tool used by managers to monitor staff compliance with hand washing, temperature logs, or ID ch...
Read MoreGluten-Free Handling Procedures
Preventing wheat cross-contact for sensitive patrons by using separate prep spaces or utensils. T...
Read MoreLaundering Linens
Proper washing and storage of towels, aprons, and uniforms, preventing cross-contamination. Some ...
Read MoreGloves Usage
Disposable gloves reduce bare-hand contact with ready-to-eat foods. TXDSHS requires changing glov...
Read MoreTXDSHS Rules
Regulations set by the Texas Department of State Health Services outlining safe food handling and...
Read MoreOpen Flame Candles on Tables
Ambiance or warming. TXDSHS warns of fire hazards near flammable décor. TABC warns staff to monit...
Read MoreChemical Storage Separation
Storing cleaning chemicals away from food, utensils, or single-use items to prevent accidental in...
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