Feeding f/t for the first time

[Slim]

I don't want him associating my hand with food.

Complete and total myth. Let me say that again, and let it sink in...Complete and total myth.

Everything that I've read says it's best to feed them in a separate tub or container so that they associate that container with food to avoid getting bit by him thinking my hand reaching into the tank is food.

Well, it can't be EVERYTHING you've read, because you will have a hard time finding anyone here who thinks you need to feed in a separate enclosure. Complete and total myth.

I'm not going to feed him in his enclosure, I've read way too many books and articles and caresheets about how they will (or could, of course) mistake your hand for food.

Ok, with all of your experience, riddle me this...if Ball Pythons have the ability to associate your hand with food, won't they start striking the dog crap out of your hand EVERYTIME you put your hand in there because they figure you MUST be getting ready to put them in their feeding tub?....and why wouldn't they associate your hand with food when you go to pull them OUT of the feeding tub, WHILE they are still in feeding mode?

COMPLETE AND TOTAL VODOO SCIENCE...