What personal factor is proven to be a leading cause of foodborne illness spread?

Personal hygiene is a crucial factor in preventing the spread of foodborne illnesses. It involves the practices individuals follow to maintain cleanliness and health. When food workers fail to implement adequate personal hygiene measures—such as handwashing after using the restroom, before handling food, or after coughing or sneezing—they can contaminate food with harmful pathogens. These pathogens can be responsible for foodborne illnesses when consumed.

Maintaining proper personal hygiene encompasses not only handwashing but also the cleanliness of clothing and the avoidance of working while ill. These practices are essential in a culinary environment to ensure that food remains safe and prevents cross-contamination, thereby safeguarding the health of consumers.

In contrast, while factors like physical strength, cooking skill, and empathy may contribute to an individual's capability to work in the food service industry, they do not directly correlate with the incidence of foodborne illnesses in the same way that personal hygiene does.