Under California Retail Food Code §113973, which of the following items of jewelry is the ONLY one permitted on the hands or arms of a food employee who handles exposed food?

Explanation

California Retail Food Code HSC §113973(b) prohibits food employees who handle exposed food from wearing jewelry on their arms and hands, with one specific exception: a plain ring such as a wedding band that has no stones, mountings, or rough surfaces. The reason is that stones, prongs, and textured surfaces cannot be effectively cleaned and harbor bacteria, and jewelry can also become a physical contaminant if it falls into food. Option B is wrong because watches are not permitted on hands/arms during food work — the case and band trap food, soap, and microbes. Option C is wrong because medical-alert bracelets are excluded from the rule when worn on the wrist; if medically necessary, the alert should be worn elsewhere (e.g., as a necklace under the shirt) or a non-jewelry alternative used. Option D is irrelevant to the hand/arm rule — but earrings are limited by §113969 if they could fall into food. The clear principle: only a plain ring band on the hand or arm is allowed.