Ontario Food Handler Certification Practice Exam

What is a food handler's responsibility regarding allergens?

1. To provide allergen-free food only

2. To be aware of and prevent allergen cross-contact

3. To avoid talking about allergens with customers

4. To memorize all allergens present in the kitchen

The correct answer is: To be aware of and prevent allergen cross-contact

A food handler's responsibility regarding allergens is to be aware of and prevent allergen cross-contact. This is critical because many individuals have food allergies that can lead to severe health reactions if they consume even trace amounts of an allergen. By understanding how to control and prevent cross-contact, food handlers can implement proper food preparation practices, such as using separate utensils and surfaces for allergen-free foods. They should also be trained to recognize the importance of maintaining cleanliness and using proper storage techniques to keep allergenic ingredients away from non-allergenic foods. This proactive approach not only helps protect customers with allergies but also contributes to a safer food environment overall. The other choices do not fully encapsulate the comprehensive responsibility of a food handler. Providing allergen-free food only is unrealistic, as it doesn’t address the need for awareness and prevention of cross-contact. Avoiding discussions about allergens with customers undermines transparency and could endanger those with allergies. Memorizing all allergens present in the kitchen is not practical, as kitchens can vary significantly in the ingredients they contain, and food handlers should focus on understanding the risks associated with allergens and implementing safety measures instead.