In which condition can in-use utensils be temporarily placed while preparing food?

In-use utensils can be temporarily placed on a food prep surface because this area is intended for food preparation and is typically kept clean and sanitized to prevent contamination. Using a designated food prep surface for utensils reduces the risk of cross-contamination with pathogens that could occur if utensils were placed on unsanitized or inappropriate areas. It is essential to ensure that the surface itself is clean and free from any raw food debris, which is why using it for utensils during food preparation is a standard practice in food safety.

Choosing this option helps maintain a safer food handling environment. The other choices present significant risks, such as placing utensils on the floor, which exposes them to dirt and potential contaminants, or on a dirty surface, risking the utensils becoming contaminated. Additionally, placing utensils in a sink can lead to them being submerged in water that may not be sanitary, thus increasing the chances of contamination.