At the Redwood Empire Food Bank, food is at the heart of everything we do! Ensuring the safety of our food and the well-being of our community is a top priority—especially during cold and flu season. As we work together to provide nourishment for those in need, it’s crucial that we all take extra precautions to prevent the spread of illness. Here are some essential food handling guidelines to keep everyone safe and healthy:

Stay Home if You’re Sick

If you are feeling under the weather, even with mild symptoms, it’s best to stay home and rest. Cold and flu viruses spread easily in communal settings, and food handling requires a high level of hygiene. By removing yourself from a volunteer shift when sick, you help protect the health of fellow volunteers, staff, and the community members we serve.

Wash Hands Frequently

Proper handwashing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of illness. Be sure to wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds:

• Before handling food
• After coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose
• After touching your face, phone, or other high-contact surfaces
• After using the restroom

If soap and water aren’t available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol until you can wash your hands properly.

Use Gloves Properly

Gloves provide an additional barrier between your hands and the food you handle. When using gloves:

• Always wash your hands before putting on a new pair
• Change gloves if they become torn, dirty, or after handling non-food items
• Never reuse disposable gloves
• Avoid touching your face, phone, or other personal items while wearing gloves

Cover Coughs & Sneezes

Coughing and sneezing can quickly spread germs, especially in shared food handling spaces. Always use a tissue or your elbow to cover your mouth and nose. Dispose of tissues immediately and wash your hands afterward to prevent contaminating surfaces or food items.

Avoid Face Touching

Touching your eyes, nose, or mouth can transfer germs from your hands to your body, increasing the risk of illness. Be mindful of this habit and take steps to reduce it, such as keeping tissues handy and using gloves correctly to discourage unnecessary face touching.

Additional Precautions

• During peak cold and flu season, consider these extra measures:
• Disinfect surfaces frequently – Wipe down shared spaces, including tables, door handles, and food prep areas, with disinfectant wipes or sprays.
• Maintain personal space – When possible, practice social distancing in food handling areas.
• Stay hydrated and rest – Keeping your immune system strong helps prevent illness in the first place.

By following these safe food handling practices, we can help ensure that our food remains safe, and our community stays healthy. Thank you for your dedication to keeping the Redwood Empire Food Bank a safe and welcoming place for all!