If food contact surfaces are in constant use, how often must they be cleaned and sanitized?

For food contact surfaces that are in constant use, the standard practice is to clean and sanitize them every four hours. This frequency is crucial to prevent the buildup of harmful pathogens and contaminants that can lead to foodborne illnesses. Cleaning removes food particles and dirt, while sanitizing reduces the number of microorganisms to a safe level.

Regular cleaning and sanitizing ensure that surfaces used for preparing and serving food remain safe, especially in high-traffic food service environments. This is particularly important when dealing with foods that have high moisture content or when raw foods are being prepared, as these conditions can promote bacterial growth.

Maintaining this schedule helps to uphold safety standards in the kitchen, aligning with health regulations and guidelines designed to protect consumers from foodborne illnesses. Reducing the time between cleaning and sanitizing allows for better control of hygiene, ensuring that any potential contaminants are addressed promptly.