What is the proper way to clean a food-contact surface after use?

The proper way to clean a food-contact surface after use is to wash, rinse, and sanitize. This procedure is essential to ensure that any food residue, dirt, and harmful pathogens are effectively removed from surfaces that come into contact with food.

Washing involves using a proper detergent to remove any food particles or grease. This step is crucial since simply wiping or rinsing does not adequately eliminate contaminants. Once the surface is washed, rinsing with clean water removes all soap and any remaining debris, preventing any chemical residue from affecting food safety.

The final step, sanitizing, involves applying a sanitizing solution that can kill bacteria and other pathogens that might remain on the surface after washing and rinsing. This three-step process is vital in food safety practices, ensuring that the surface is safe for the next use and helps prevent foodborne illnesses.

Using just a dry cloth, only rinsing with hot water, or spraying with cleaning solution without following up with rinsing and sanitizing do not provide adequate cleanliness or safety, as they may leave behind contaminants that could compromise food safety.