Cleaning and Sanitizing – Concept Linking Flashcards

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Too weak or strong sanitizer won’t work properly

Test strips ensure correct concentration

Why store chemicals in labeled containers?

To avoid mixing them up with food or drink

Example of monitoring cleaning program

Supervisor checks tasks against schedule daily

Why provide simple instructions for cleaning tasks?

Clear directions prevent steps from being skipped

Why label sanitizer spray bottles?

So chemicals are never mistaken for food or cleaning water

Why keep sanitizer test kits available?

To make sure sanitizing solutions are at the correct strength

Why clean nonfood-contact surfaces?

To prevent pests and buildup of dirt

Labels help ensure chemicals are used correctly

Never use unlabeled chemical containers near food

Hot water can sanitize dishes in a three-compartment sink

Use a thermometer to check

Why clean and sanitize utensils between uses?

To prevent pathogens from transferring from one food to another

Why store linens in clean, dry areas?

Dirty or damp linens can grow mold or bacteria

Why not towel-dry sanitized items?

Towels can contaminate clean items

Why keep chemicals in original containers?

To identify contents easily and prevent misuse

Example of procedure for vomit cleanup

Train staff to protect food, surfaces, and people

What does pH affect in sanitizing?

It changes how well sanitizer works

How can poor cleaning cause cross-contamination?

Dirty equipment or surfaces can transfer pathogens to food

Keep wiping cloths in sanitizer solution between uses

Never leave cloths lying on counters

Why clean the inside of coolers and freezers often?

Dirt and spills can attract pests or contaminate food

Why should wiping cloths be stored in sanitizer solution?

To keep them from spreading bacteria between surfaces

Example of corrective action

Add more sanitizer to reach proper ppm

Why clean up spills in coolers and dry storage right away?

Spills attract pests and promote bacterial growth

Why supervise daily cleaning routines?

To ensure the master cleaning schedule is followed

Why post cleaning instructions near equipment?

To guide staff on proper cleaning steps

Why must food-contact surfaces be cleaned and sanitized often?

To remove food residue and kill bacteria before they grow

Why schedule major cleaning after closing?

To prevent food contamination from cleaning tools and supplies

Why follow manufacturer’s instructions for cleaners?

Wrong use may make them unsafe or ineffective

Why keep raw meat wiping cloths separate?

To avoid cross-contamination

Why store cleaning tools and chemicals in a designated area?

To keep them away from food and food-contact surfaces

Why measure sanitizer concentration?

Too weak won’t kill pathogens, too strong may be unsafe

Why cover equipment surfaces until use?

To prevent contamination

Why separate cleaning tools for restrooms from those used in kitchens?

To prevent cross-contamination between dirty and clean areas

Why let surfaces air-dry?

Towels may recontaminate the surface

Keeping thermometer cases clean

Prevents cross-contamination

Why must utensils be air-dried after washing?

Towels can recontaminate clean surfaces

Why clean trays and carts daily?

To keep them from contaminating tableware

Why use a master cleaning schedule?

Ensures all areas are cleaned regularly

Why not dump mop water in hand sinks?

It contaminates sinks used for food or hands

Why post cleaning schedules for all areas?

Clear schedules ensure regular cleaning and accountability

Why store glasses upside down?

To keep them clean and sanitary

Why clean garbage containers often

Prevents odors, pests, and contamination

Why clean and sanitize equipment after each task?

Pathogens can spread to new foods if equipment stays dirty

Why provide a clock with a second hand near sink?

To time sanitizer contact

Example of clean-in-place

Soft-serve ice cream machine must be cleaned daily

Why keep chemicals below food and utensils?

Prevents leaks or spills contaminating food

Example of cross-contamination prevention

Clean slicers every 4 hours to prevent listeriosis

Labels keep staff safe when using chemicals

Never use unlabeled containers

Rinsing alone is not enough

Sanitizing kills pathogens like Salmonella

Why throw away food touched by chemicals?

Chemical contamination makes food unsafe

Why must the water in dish machines reach the correct temperature?

Hot water sanitizes dishes and kills harmful microorganisms

Tool for checking dishwasher surface temperature

Heat-sensitive tape or max registering thermometer

Sanitizers only work on clean surfaces

Air-drying prevents recontamination from towels

Why must surfaces be air-dried after sanitizing?

Wiping can recontaminate clean surfaces

Why clean measuring tools after each use?

To prevent bacteria from transferring between ingredients

Why ensure cleaning chemicals are approved for foodservice use?

Only food-safe products can be used around food-contact surfaces

Why clean walls and ceilings regularly?

Dust and grease buildup can fall into food or onto equipment

Why keep chemicals away from food and food-contact surfaces?

Chemicals can cause foodborne illness if they touch food

Regular cleaning prevents buildup of pathogens

Cleaning schedule must be followed

Why sanitize after cleaning?

Cleaning removes dirt, but sanitizing kills remaining pathogens

Why wash, rinse, and sanitize before preparing an allergen-safe meal?

To remove any allergen residue from food-contact surfaces

Example of sanitizing

Hot water at 171°F for 30 seconds or chemical solution

Example of contact time

Iodine sanitizer must stay on surface at least 30 seconds

Why measure sanitizer with test kits?

Exact strength is needed for effective sanitizing

Chemicals like cleaners and sanitizers can contaminate food

Store them away from prep, storage, and service areas

Example of chemical relabeling

Write “bleach” on working spray bottle

How does sanitizer strength affect food safety?

Weak sanitizer won't kill germs; too strong can contaminate food
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