How often should food contact surfaces be sanitized?

Food contact surfaces should be sanitized after every use to ensure that harmful bacteria and other pathogens are effectively eliminated. This is essential in preventing cross-contamination and reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses.

Regular sanitization helps to maintain a safe environment for food preparation, particularly when switching between different types of food items, such as raw meats and ready-to-eat foods. By sanitizing after each use, food establishments can ensure that any potential contaminants are addressed immediately, which is crucial for maintaining food safety standards.

While sanitizing at the end of the day or after spills can be important, these practices do not provide the immediate protection that sanitizing after every use offers, which is vital in a busy food service setting where food is constantly being prepared. This proactive approach is a fundamental component of proper food safety and hygiene protocols.