An emergency that disrupts the normal water supply may require the use of

An emergency that disrupts the normal water supply may require the use of

• A. Reusable dishes
• B. Heavier plastic
• C. Metal utensils only
• D. Single-use disposable plates, forks, knives, and spoons

Answer: (D)

When water for cleaning and sanitizing is unavailable, you can’t safely reuse dishes or utensils. Using single-use disposable plates, forks, knives, and spoons is the best option because it eliminates the need to wash and sanitize between uses. You can provide fresh, clean items for each meal and discard them afterward, which greatly reduces the risk of cross-contamination and foodborne illness in an emergency. Reusable dishes, heavier plastic, or metal utensils would still require washing and sanitizing, which isn’t reliably possible without a water supply, so they’re not as safe or practical in this situation.

When water for cleaning and sanitizing is unavailable, you can’t safely reuse dishes or utensils. Using single-use disposable plates, forks, knives, and spoons is the best option because it eliminates the need to wash and sanitize between uses. You can provide fresh, clean items for each meal and discard them afterward, which greatly reduces the risk of cross-contamination and foodborne illness in an emergency. Reusable dishes, heavier plastic, or metal utensils would still require washing and sanitizing, which isn’t reliably possible without a water supply, so they’re not as safe or practical in this situation.