since cleanliness is very important for anyone handling food, there are things that you should do when cooking. most importantly, wash your hands with water and soap before you start cooking. you should also keep your hair combed back in order to keep stray hairs from falling into the food. see that your apron, the table tops where you will be working, and all utensils are spotlessly clean. rinse all the foods that you will use meat(except chopped meat)