Answer :
Final answer:
A food handler must wash their hands before starting the task of chopping lettuce, as well as each time the gloves are changed, to prevent the spread of foodborne diseases and ensure proper food hygiene.
Explanation:
The correct answer to when a food handler's hands must be washed is before starting the task. Handwashing is a crucial step in preventing the spread of foodborne diseases and maintaining proper food hygiene. According to guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), hands should be washed before, during, and after food handling; this includes before putting on gloves to chop lettuce or engage in any food preparation activities. Furthermore, it is essential to wash hands each time the gloves are changed to maintain cleanliness and reduce the risk of contamination. Additionally, handwashing should follow the five steps recommended by the CDC to be effective.