When should food contact surfaces be cleaned?

Food contact surfaces should be cleaned after each use to prevent cross-contamination and ensure food safety. This practice minimizes the risk of pathogens transferring from one food item to another, which is crucial in maintaining health standards in food service environments. Cleaning surfaces immediately after use allows for the removal of any food residue, spills, or contaminants that may be present, thus reducing the possibility of foodborne illnesses. Regular cleaning practices help maintain a hygienic environment that is essential in upholding safety protocols in a restaurant or café setting.

While cleaning once a week or every hour may seem beneficial, these frequencies do not adequately address the immediate risks associated with food contact surfaces that are used multiple times throughout the day. Cleaning before opening for business is also important but should not replace the routine cleaning that occurs after each use.