What is the difference between cleaning and sanitizing?

The distinction between cleaning and sanitizing is crucial for food safety practices. Cleaning is the process of removing dirt, debris, food particles, and other contaminants from surfaces, utensils, and equipment. This step is essential to ensure that no harmful substances are present that could affect food safety or quality.

Sanitizing, on the other hand, goes a step further by reducing the number of germs and bacteria to levels that are considered safe, as defined by public health standards. This process typically involves the use of chemical agents or heat to eliminate pathogens that may remain after cleaning.

By understanding this difference, food handlers can ensure that both processes are properly executed, thereby minimizing the risk of foodborne illnesses. It's important to remember that simply cleaning may not be sufficient to ensure food safety; both cleaning and sanitizing are necessary in a comprehensive food safety program. This comprehensive approach is necessary to maintain a safe food handling environment.