What is the first step in cleaning and sanitizing a food-contact surface?

Pre-clean the surface

Pre-cleaning removes visible food and soil deposits, making the surface more receptive to the sanitizing process. This step is essential for sanitizers to work effectively, as they cannot penetrate through layers of dirt and grime.

Here are some tips for pre-cleaning food-contact surfaces:

- Use a mild detergent and warm water.

- Scrub the surface with a clean sponge or cloth.

- Pay special attention to areas where food debris is likely to accumulate, such as around faucets and handles.

- Rinse the surface thoroughly with clean water to remove any residual detergent.