Cleaning and Sanitising is not the same thing!
Cleaning and Sanitising
|
Cleaning is the process of using detergent and water to remove visible dust, grease, dirt, stains and odours from all surfaces, fixtures (i.e. benches and sinks), utensils and equipment.
Sanitising is the process of killing food poisoning bacteria (what you cannot see) and is achieved by using heat and/or chemicals.
It is not an option to use either a detergent or a sanitiser – both must be used.
Sanitising
The use of chemicals is the most common method for killing food poisoning bacteria however, heat can also be used. Food businesses must make sure that any sanitiser used is ‘food grade’ – safe for food contact surfaces. The table below lists examples of common sanitisers.
What can I sanitise with?
Sanitiser |
Use/Dilution |
Air Dry |
Comments |
Chemical Sanitisers |
|||
Household Bleach (4% Chlorine). |
1.25ml in 1L water = 12.5 ml (2½ teaspoons) in 10L water. |
Yes (unless a stronger solution is used). |
Inexpensive and fast acting. Good for equipment sanitation – can be corrosive. |
Commercial Bleach (10% Chlorine). |
0.5ml in 1L water = 5 ml (1 teaspoon) in 10L water. |
Yes (unless a stronger solution is used). |
Inexpensive and fast acting. Good for equipment sanitation – can be corrosive. |
70% Alcohol Solutions. |
700ml in 300ml of water. |
Yes. |
Good for equipment sanitation – air dries rapidly. Caution: Flammable. |
Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (QUAT). |
As per manufacturers instructions. |
As per manufacturers instructions. |
Good for equipment sanitation – is non corrosive. |
Heat |
|||
Hot Water. |
Water must reach 77°C for at least 30 seconds. |
Yes. |
Commercial dishwasher is recommended. |
Please Note: This table is to be used as a guide only. For questions about specific products please contact your supplier or manufacturer of the chemical.
How often should I sanitise?
It is recommended that food contact surfaces and equipment are cleaned and sanitised after every use and/or at least every four hours.
|
What should I sanitise?
Any surface, utensil or piece of equipment that comes into contact with food must be cleaned and sanitised – see left.
How do I sanitise?
Heat – commercial dishwashers or hot water in a sink are both ways of sanitising smaller items.
If sanitising using hot water in a sink, you must:
- Make sure water is at least 77°C when put in the sink
- Use a heating element to keep the water temperature at 77°C or
Water at this temperature is dangerous. If sanitising using heat it is best to use a commercial dishwasher.
Chemical – if you do not have a dishwasher a chemical sanitiser can be used.
- For items that fit in your double bowl sink - wash in detergent and hot water in the first bowl then sanitise using a chemical sanitiser and warm water in the second bowl – see left.
- Items that do not fit in your sink – thoroughly clean and then use a spray bottle to apply the
|
Please Note: A surface must be thoroughly cleaned before it is sanitised, as sanitisers are unable to effectively kill food poisoning bacteria if the surface is still visibly dirty.
Are there organic sanitisers available?
Yes. Sanitisers which have the following active ingredients are considered to be organic:
- Peracetic Acid
- Hydrogen Peroxide
- Organic Acids
- 70% Alcohol solutions that do not contain Quaternary Ammonium Compounds
Where do I purchase a sanitiser?
Household bleach,food grade sanitisers and methylated spirits can be purchased at the Cleaning Hub.
Things to ask when purchasing a sanitiser
- Is the sanitiser ‘food grade’ – safe for food contact surfaces?
- Can I use the sanitiser on all surfaces and equipment?
- Does the sanitiser need to be rinsed off?
- How much do I need to use?
For further information check your Food Safety Program or contact your chemical supplier