Final answer:
Food handlers are only permitted to drink from a covered container in a food prep area to prevent contamination, ensuring food safety.
Step-by-step explanation:
When allowed by all local regulatory authorities, the only way for food handlers to drink in a food prep area is a) From a covered container. This is a safety measure to prevent any potential contamination from occurring in the food prep area, which could come from spills, droplets, or any other form of direct contact with open beverage containers. Using sealed or covered containers minimizes the risk of contaminants entering the food being prepared, which is essential for maintaining food safety.