How often should food contact surfaces be sanitized?

Food contact surfaces should be sanitized after each use or as necessary to ensure that they remain free from harmful pathogens and contaminants. This practice is critical in food safety as bacteria and other microorganisms can easily transfer from surfaces to food, leading to foodborne illnesses. Regular sanitization, especially after each use or when switching from one food task to another (like cutting raw meat and then preparing vegetables), helps maintain a safe environment in commercial kitchens and food preparation areas.

In contrast, sanitizing only once a day or once a week may not effectively eliminate germs and bacteria, especially during busy periods when food contact surfaces are frequently used. Cleaning surfaces only when they are visibly dirty does not adequately address the risk of contamination since pathogens can be present even when no visible soil is seen. Ensuring surfaces are sanitized after each use helps to uphold the highest standards of food safety and public health.