Personal hygiene -Nails (Clemens)

Why is it important to keep our hands and nails clean when working in the kitchen?We all know that we have to keep our hands and nails clean at all times in the kitchen and at this day and age, it seems like common sense.However, not many people are applying that 'common sense' in the kitchen!You will be surprised at the types of bacteria present in our nails. We use our hands the most in the kitchen setting. From rubbing marinades into large pieces of meat to cutting vegetables,it is important to keep our hands, especially our nails clean. Other than that, our nails need to be free of any dirt as well. The most common bacterial skin pathogens are Staphylococcus aureus and group A β-hemolytic streptococci. Herpes simplex is the most common viral skin disease. Of the dermatophytic fungi, Trichophyton rubrum is the most prevalent cause of skin and nail infections.Long nails might seem like an asset in the kitchen as well as it makes peeling garlic or opening tags a lot easier.However ,if we were to keep long nails in the kitchen,dirt and other contaminants will get trapped easily and we risk our customers falling sick.

. Nail polish is also a big no no in the kitchen. This is because nail polishes normally contain the following chemicals:Toulene– A chemical known to cause reproductive harm and dizziness,Formaldehyde– This known carcinogen is found in many nail polishes,Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) -This chemical is banned in Europe and is known to cause reproductive problems, especially in boys, as well as an assortment of other chemicals which are harmful to the body.

. As cooks or chefs, we hold a great responsibility to the health of our customers and should not compromise on any parts of our own personal hygiene.