After sanitizing, what is the recommended drying method for utensils?

• A. Wipe with a towel.
• B. Air-dry on a clean rack.
• C. Let them dry in the dishwater.
• D. Dry by blowing air from a hair dryer.

Answer: (B)

Air-drying on a clean rack is preferred after sanitizing. This method allows moisture to evaporate without touching contaminated surfaces or transferring bacteria from towels or other items, keeping the utensils’ sanitized surfaces clean for storage. Wiping with a towel can reintroduce bacteria if the towel isn’t perfectly clean. Letting them dry in the dishwater leaves utensils damp in a potentially dirty environment, which risks recontamination. Using a hair dryer is impractical in a kitchen setting and can blow contaminants around. So, placing sanitized utensils on a clean rack to air-dry minimizes recontamination and ensures complete drying before use or storage.