How often should food contact surfaces be sanitized?

Food contact surfaces should be sanitized after each use to ensure the highest level of safety and hygiene in food preparation areas. This practice is vital because these surfaces often come into direct contact with food, which can transfer harmful bacteria and pathogens if not properly cleaned and sanitized. By sanitizing after each use, you eliminate any potential contaminants that may be present from different foods or food preparation processes, thereby reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses. This adherence to frequent sanitization is a key component of good food safety practices and helps maintain a clean and safe environment for food handling.