What must be done with clean dishes before placing food on them?

Checking for cleanliness before placing food on clean dishes is crucial for maintaining food safety and hygiene. This step ensures that there are no residues, grease, or contaminants left on the dishes that could compromise the quality of the food. Additionally, it helps in preventing foodborne illnesses, which can occur if bacteria from unclean surfaces come into contact with food.

While other actions such as letting dishes dry, storing them correctly, or using them immediately might seem relevant in certain situations, they do not specifically address the need to confirm the cleanliness of the dishes before food is served. Properly ensuring the dishes are spotless directly aligns with health standards and best practices in food service.