Final answer:
The most important reason food handlers should not chew gum is to avoid contaminating the food and presenting a choking hazard to consumers. Although distraction and unprofessional appearance are concerns, food safety remains paramount.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most important reason food handlers should not chew gum while working is the risk of contaminating the food they are handling. Chewing gum can lead to the accidental introduction of gum into the food, which is a potential choking hazard for customers. Additionally, gum chewing can contribute to an unprofessional appearance and can distract the handler from fully focusing on ensuring the food is prepared safely and hygienically.
Regarding the other options, distraction from work is a concern as it may affect performance and focus, but it is not as critical as food safety issues. The risk of choking is a personal safety concern, however, it is not as relevant as the potential contamination that could come from chewing gum. The interference with taste perception does not apply in the same way to food handlers as their main concern is the preparation of the food, not the tasting of it during the process.
Regarding the other information provided:
- Animals not being able to distinguish dangerous or spoiled food is related to their sensory perception, not human food handlers.
- The inability of an animal to eat food is unrelated to the practices of food handlers.
- The chemical breakdown of food thanks to saliva containing enzymes is relevant to the digestive process but does not directly answer the question about gum chewing risks during food handling.