State Food Safety Practice Exam

How often should a food employee replace a cloth napkin that lines a basket of breadsticks?

1. Once a day

2. Every two hours

3. When it is time to launder the linens

4. Each time the basket is refilled for a new customer

The correct answer is: Each time the basket is refilled for a new customer

A cloth napkin lining a basket of breadsticks should be replaced each time the basket is refilled for a new customer to ensure that food safety and hygiene standards are maintained. This practice helps prevent cross-contamination and the spread of bacteria. Since multiple customers may come into contact with the same breadsticks, replacing the napkin with each refill minimizes the risk of transferring any potential contaminants from previous customers to the new ones. This approach aligns with the principle of maintaining cleanliness and providing a safe dining experience. Other options, such as replacing the napkin once a day or every two hours, do not take into account the frequency of customer interactions and the potential for foodborne illnesses. Suggesting to replace it when it is time to launder the linens ignores the immediate need for cleanliness in the context of direct food handling. By prioritizing the replacement of the napkin with each new customer, food establishments can better ensure food safety and customer health.