Effective cleaning
Want to watch this video? Sign up for the course
or enter your email below to watch one free video.
Unlock This Video Now for FREE
This video is normally available to paying customers.
You may unlock this video for FREE. Enter your email address for instant access AND to receive ongoing updates and special discounts related to this topic.
Cleaning and Disinfection in Food Handling
Importance of Cleaning in Food Handling
Cleaning is crucial in food handling to prevent spoilage, remove dirt, and reduce the risk of contamination:
- Effective cleaning removes bacteria from hands, equipment, and surfaces.
- Prevents harmful bacteria from spreading onto food.
- Reduces the risk of cross-contamination, crucial for allergen management.
- Mandatory by law and promotes a positive image to customers.
- General advice is to clean as you go and maintain cleanliness at all times.
Process of Cleaning and Disinfection
The cleaning process involves several stages to ensure thorough sanitation:
- Pre-clean: Remove food scraps and waste.
- Main clean: Use hot water, detergent, and sanitiser.
- Rinse: Remove dirt and detergent with clean hot water.
- Disinfect: Destroy micro-organisms using disinfectants.
- Final rinse: Remove disinfectant residue with hot water.
- Drying: Preferably air dry to avoid contamination.
Specific Cleaning Guidelines
Follow these specific guidelines to ensure effective cleaning and disinfection:
- Use dishcloths, brushes, and cleaning products suitable for the task.
- Follow manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and disinfection products.
- Ensure disinfection products meet BS EN standards (e.g., BS EN 1276 or BS EN 13697).
- Do not mix chemicals and use in correct volumes and contact times.
- Implement a written cleaning policy and schedule.
- Clean and disinfect food areas and equipment between different tasks, especially after handling raw food.
- Cover or store food before cleaning to prevent contamination.
- Maintain cleanliness by cleaning and tidying as you work.
Adhering to these guidelines ensures food safety, reduces contamination risks, and maintains hygiene standards in food handling environments.
Recommended Products For You
HeartSine 350P Internal Package - Special Offer
£875.00 + VAT
Bsi First Aid Kit Premier Small Catering
£13.97 + VAT
BSI First Aid Kit Small Catering Refill
£10.83 + VAT