What should be done with utensils that are stored in food?

Utensils that are used with food should have the handle above the food to maintain hygiene and prevent contamination. This practice helps avoid any direct contact between the food and the part of the utensil that is typically handled and touched by hands. By keeping the handle above, it reduces the risk of transferring bacteria or other contaminants from the utensil into the food, thereby ensuring safer food handling practices.

Storing utensils in food with the handle above also provides easier access for service or application, while maintaining a clean separation between what is being consumed and the utensil used to serve or stir it. Adhering to this guideline is critical in food safety protocols, which aim to minimize the potential for foodborne illnesses.