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module 7 • page 1 of 44
Sanitary Operations: Cleaning and Sanitizing
In Module 5 we outlined the need to design, construct
and use food processing equipment and utensils that are
easy to clean. In this module we will discuss the part of
the GMP that requires you to properly clean that equip-
ment along with the rest of the processing facility.
This module will help you understand the GMP require-
ments for:
• General maintenance and sanitary condition of
buildings, fixtures and facilities.
• Proper selection and use of cleaning and sanitiz-
ing chemicals.
• General cleaning and sanitizing procedures.
• Proper cleaning and sanitation of food contact surfaces.
• Storage and handling of cleaned equipment and utensils.
These requirements are found in Subpart B, Section §110.35 of the GMP regulation.
There are 44 pages, 5 GMP TVs, 10 links to Internet resources, and 6 questions in this
Module. We’ll continue to use the GMP TV to provide some examples of good and bad
practices.
module 7 • page 2 of 44
Definitions
The GMP requires that you keep your facility and all equipment, utensils and food contact
surfaces clean and sanitary, but it does not tell you how to do it. So we will begin this
Module with detailed information on how to properly clean and sanitize and then follow
with a discussion of the specific GMP requirements.
Before we discuss how to clean and sanitize, it is important to understand the definitions
of cleaning, sanitizing, and food contact surfaces.
Cleaning means the removal of dirt, food residue, and any other materials from a sur-
face, utensil, or equipment using detergents or other cleaning aids and either mechanical
or detergent scrubbing actions, followed by rinsing.
Sanitizing means the application of a chemical or heat to a clean surface that will kill
microorganisms. The definitions section of the GMP regulation states that: Sanitize means
to adequately treat food-contact surfaces by a process that is effective in destroying veg-
etative cells of microorganisms of public health significance, and in substantially reducing
numbers of other undesirable microorganisms, but without adversely affecting the product
or its safety for the consumer.
Food contact surfaces are defined in the GMP as those surfaces that contact human
food and those surfaces from which drainage onto the food or onto surfaces that contact
the food ordinarily occurs during the normal course of operations. Food-contact surfaces
include utensils and food-contact surfaces of equipment. Because food contact surfaces
represent the highest risk of direct food contamination, they may need to be cleaned and
sanitized more often and more vigorously than other areas of your processing facility.
Food contact surfaces may include employee garments, gloves, and hands in addition to
equipment and utensils.
module 7 • page 3 of 44
How To Clean
Remove Soil: Let’s start with cleaning, which is the process of removing the soil from
the plant and processing equipment. The soil that we want to remove can include food
debris made up of fats, carbohydrates, proteins and minerals, dirt, and other undesir-
able material which build up on food contact surfaces and provide nutrients that bacteria
can use to grow and multiply. After cleaning, a sanitizer is applied to destroy microorgan-
isms that may be left on the surface. It is important to remember that a sanitizer will lose
its effectiveness against bacteria unless food debris has been completely removed from
equipment and food contact surfaces.
There are two basic types of cleaning methods: manual and Clean-In-Place (CIP).
Manual Cleaning is not just a brush and bucket! It involves selecting the right cleaners,
using the right method to apply cleaning agents, and then using whatever mechanical ac-
tion is needed to remove the soil from the food contact surface.
Clean-In-Place (CIP) is a method of cleaning enclosed pipes and equipment that uses
re-circulation of cleaning and sanitizing solutions. This method is used for equipment that
cannot be easily broken down for cleaning.
module 7 • page 4 of 44
Use The Right Tools
Whether you use a manual or clean-in place system, developing an effective cleaning and
sanitizing program requires that you have the right tools for the job.
These tools should include:
• Plenty of potable water (both hot and cold water may be needed).
• Detergents appropriate for use in food plants.
• Acceptable cleaning tools such as brushes, pads, brooms, foam applicators, and
sprayers.
• Approved sanitizing solutions that will kill microorganisms but not contaminate food.
• Effective cleaning and sanitizing procedures for your facility and all of its equipment
and utensils.
• Trained employees to conduct cleaning & sanitizing procedures properly.
• Monitoring activities to verify that procedures are effective.
Let’s look at each of these items in more detail.
module 7 • page 5 of 44
Water Is Essential For Cleaning
Water Quality: You must have an
adequate water supply to clean soiled
equipment. A desirable water sup-
ply must be free of microorganisms
(clean and potable), have a neutral
pH (near pH 7), and a low mineral
content. Some firms may have to
treat their water to achieve these
qualities. A good water supply in-
cludes both an adequate amount of
hot and cold water and adequate
water pressure.
Water Temperature: The tempera-
ture of the water is also important.
Some cleaners may not be effective
if the water is too hot or too cold.
Check the label on the cleaner that
you use to see if the manufacturer
recommends an appropriate water
temperature. The GMP requirements for delivering hot and cold water to conduct cleaning
and sanitizing activities were covered in Module 4.
Pre-Cleaning: Before you use water for cleaning equipment, you need to remove large
particles and any heavy soil that has built up during food handling or processing. You can
do this by physically removing large scraps of food and by scraping any areas that have
food debris that is difficult to remove. If you don’t remove the heavy soil, you will end up
trying to wash utensils and equipment in a soupy mixture of water, food debris, and deter-
gent - a very ineffective way of cleaning.
module 7 • page 6 of 44
Detergents and Their Use
Now that you have determined that you must have an adequate
supply of potable water at a suitable temperature and with enough
pressure, you need to decide on what type of detergent you will
use. This will depend on:
• The type of soil or food debris to be cleaned,
• The type of surfaces that you are cleaning,
• The type of cleaning equipment that you will be using, and
• The amount of water available and its chemistry (hard or soft
water).
Detergents have different ingredients that aid in cleaning. Some
reduce the hardness or alkalinity of the water, others tie up metals
in the water, which increases wetting ability, and some make fats
easier to dissolve in water. It is important to check the label instructions and match the
detergent to the type of soil to be removed. There are many different products available
and you should consult with your supplier to find the right product for your situation.
module 7 • page 7 of 44
How Detergents or Cleaners Work
In order to select the right detergent for the right job, it
is necessary for you to understand just how detergents
work. Most detergents are composed of a mixture of in-
gredients that are formulated for specific types of dirt or
food residue.
Basic Ingredients: Certain ingredients in the detergent
make the residue that you are trying to remove dissolve
better in water. Most detergents are designed to work
best in hot or warm water. One ingredient in many deter-
gents is called a surfactant, which binds equally well to
water and fats or oils. These ingredients promote physical
cleaning by helping to wet, foam, and dissolve the food
debris to be removed so that it can be washed away with
water.
Chemical Agents: Other ingredients are either alkaline
or acidic, and are designed to chemically remove certain
types of soil or food debris. For example, alkaline ingredi-
ents like strong caustic soda or potash, or milder agents
like phosphates are used to remove fatty material. They
bind to fat to form soap, which can then be washed away
with water. Other detergents that contain weak or strong
acids dissolve mineral deposits, which can then be washed
away with water.
Special Additives: Additional ingredients may be added to some products to make them
more effective for specific types of cleaning. Foods like milk that are high in protein can be
very difficult to remove—especially if they have been heated. Specially formulated deter-
gents that are alkaline, contain wetting agents, or ingredients like enzymes may be need-
ed to dissolve or break down proteins.
module 7 • page 8 of 44
Biofilms and Detergents
Biofilms: Sometimes, no matter what you do to clean, some
types of bacteria can produce a substance that protects them
from their environment and helps them to stick to food contact
surfaces. These bacterial communities are known as biofilms. If
a biofilm develops on a food contact surface, it cannot be eas-
ily seen or detected and it is very difficult to remove. Harmful
bacteria can be dislodged from the biofilm during processing and
contaminate food products.
Removing Biofilms: Specially formulated detergents that con-
tain an oxidizing agent such as chlorine or peroxide, in addition
to other ingredients, may be needed to remove these biofilms.
There are many different cleaning products available for use in
food processing plants. You should talk to your supplier to de-
termine what products will be most effective for your particular
needs. Once you determine what products to use, it is important to remember to follow all
manufacturers directions when using them and make sure that they are stored properly.
module 7 • page 9 of 44
Choose An Effective Cleaner That Won’t
Damage Equipment
While it is important to use a detergent that will
remove all dirt and food debris, you also need to
consider the type of surface you are trying to clean.
Caustic alkaline or acidic cleaners may be effective
in removing food debris, but they can also be cor-
rosive to softer metals such as aluminum, copper, or
lower grades of steel. Stress cracking and clouding
can also occur when hard plastics are exposed to
corrosive cleaning agents for prolonged periods of
time. Higher grades of stainless steel are likely to be
more resistant to corrosion over time, which is why
it is a preferred material for handling foods that are
acidic, salty, or high in fat or water.
If cleaning agents cause the surfaces that are being
cleaned to deteriorate, it will be much more difficult to keep them clean. For this reason
it is important to use cleaning agents that are effective and get the job done, but are not
so aggressive that they pit, crack, rust, corrode or otherwise damage your food contact
surfaces.
Contaminated food is eaten by customers
Foodborne illness occurs and customers get sick
module 7 • page 10 of 44
Cleaning Basics
For both manual and CIP cleaning, there are several factors that need to be considered
including: contact time, temperature, concentration, and scrubbing. Let’s review
them.
Contact time: Detergents or cleaners do not work instantly. It takes time for them to
penetrate the soil or food debris on the food contact surface that you want to clean. That
is why a dirty pan is easier to clean after it has been soaked in warm soapy water. You
need to consider how cleaning agents will be applied, and how long they need to stay in
contact with the item to be cleaned. The “directions for use” on the label of your cleaning
agent should outline recommended dilutions and contact time. You should always refer to
these directions when using any cleaner.
Soaking: If you need to extend contact time, the most common way is to use a soak tank
or sink for portable items such as utensils, pans, cutting boards and other small pieces of
equipment. Each item can be soaked in a solution of the detergent and warm water for as
long as necessary. This is one reason why most state and local regulatory agencies require
a two or three compartment sink equipped with hot water so that one of the compart-
ments is dedicated to washing the equipment or utensils.
However, not all equipment can be submerged in a detergent solution. Larger pieces of
equipment, walls, and other vertical surfaces which require an extended contact time
might need to be cleaned using a foam application - which will be discussed later.
module 7 • page 11 of 44
Cleaning Basics
Temperature: As discussed earlier, each
detergent has an optimum temperature
at which it performs the best. If the water
temperature is too cold, the detergent may
not work properly. If the temperature is too
high, soil could be baked onto equipment.
Some detergents tend to degrade at higher
water temperatures.
Concentration: There is an optimal concen-
tration of detergent for each cleaning task.
Again, check the “directions for use” on the
container when deciding how much to use.
Scrubbing: Manual cleaning requires water,
a detergent, and a physical scrubbing action
in order to release the food debris that your
detergent has loosened. It is not enough just to pour water with detergent on the surface
of the equipment to be cleaned. You must also use some sort of brush, pad or other tool
and physical labor!
module 7 • page 12 of 44
Cleaning Tools and Scrubbing
Scrubbing is Essential: There are no detergents that are ideal for every situation. Ap-
plying the right detergent for the recommended time can loosen or begin to dissolve dirt
and food debris, but scrubbing is usually necessary to finish the job. This is especially true
if the soil has dried or been cooked onto the surface. For most situations you will need to
scrub the item or surface to be cleaned with a brush, pad or other cleaning tool to loosen
all of the dirt and food debris so that it can be washed away.
Types of Cleaning Tools: There are many different types of cleaning tools. Let’s look at
two of the most common types, and some of the things to consider when deciding which
tools to use.
Brushes should be designed for use in food operations and constructed of a material that
is easy to clean and will not be damaged by the detergents that you are using. When se-
lecting brushes you should consider how they will be used. Brushes with stiff bristles may
be appropriate for flat or difficult to clean surfaces. Softer bristles may be needed to clean
curved surfaces or things that may be susceptible to scratching.
Pads are popular cleaning aids. They can be used for many different tasks because they
readily conform to the surface being cleaned and may only require light pressure to loosen
food debris. They are also useful for cleaning utensils and hard to reach areas such as un-
der the lip of a processing table. Pads should be designed for use in food establishments
and made of a synthetic material that will not be damaged by cleaning chemicals. It is
important to use pads that are designed for the type of material to be cleaned.
Avoid Damage: Pads, brushes, or other cleaning tools that are too abrasive can cause
damage such as scratching and rusting. This damage could increase the chance that
bacteria will attach to the surface and form a biofilm, which could then contaminate food
products over time with harmful bacteria or other microorganisms.
module 7 • page 13 of 44
Cleaning Tools
Design Considerations: Since scrubbing is such an
important part of the cleaning process, you should
also consider how easy your cleaning tools are to
use. For some cleaning tasks, brushes with long
handles can make scrubbing easier and for others
more difficult. Cleaning tools that are awkward or
cause user fatigue may decrease your employee’s
motivation to clean as thoroughly as possible.
Tools to Avoid: Some cleaning tools such as
sponges, wiping cloths and mops should never
be used for routine cleaning in food plants. These
items are very difficult to clean and sanitize. They
also retain moisture and water which will promote
the growth of bacteria that could contaminate the
surface or item that you think you are cleaning. Disposable, single-use paper towels
should be used if surfaces need to be wiped.
Keep Your Cleaning Tools Clean: Damaged or dirty brushes, pads or brooms can actu-
ally be a source of contamination if they are not routinely cleaned and sanitized. Cleaning
tools should also be dedicated to a specific job. For example, brushes, brooms or squee-
gees used to clean the dirtiest areas of your plant such as floors or drains should never
be used on equipment or food contact surfaces. Using different colored cleaning tools for
different jobs can be an effective way to make sure that the right tool is used for the right
job. This concept will be discussed in more detail in Module 8.
module 7 • page 14 of 44
Cleaning Tools
GMP TV: Click on the images in the GMP TV below for additional information on cleaning
tools.
module 7 • page 15 of 44
Foam Application Systems
Not all equipment can be washed or soaked in a sink. If you are cleaning large pieces of
equipment like processing machinery, tables, coolers, conveyors, floors and walls, that re-
quire a longer contact time for detergent to work, a foam application system can be used.
How Foamers Work: A foam application system combines air with a foaming detergent
that has the consistency of shaving cream when it is applied. The foam tends to cling to
vertical surfaces to allow enough contact time for the detergent to do its work. This type
of application can also produce a consistent detergent concentration, and is highly visible
to ensure that you have uniform coverage of the surface to be cleaned.
Use Foam Detergents Properly: It is important to follow manufacturer directions. Us-
ing too much of the cleaning product or leaving it on surfaces too long can make clean-
ing more difficult and damage your equipment. Some important things to consider when
using foam detergents is that you need an applicator, the foam needs a certain amount of
contact time, and you may still need to manually scrub the equipment for the detergent
to be effective. Again, all of this information is typically found in the “directions for use”
on each detergent container label. Let’s take a look at some foam application systems in
the GMP TV on the next page.
module 7 • page 16 of 44
Foam Application Systems
GMP TV: Click on the Photos in the GMP TV below to learn more about different types of
foam applications.
module 7 • page 17 of 44
Clean-In-Place Systems
For some types of cleaning jobs, neither manual or
foaming application of a detergent would be effec-
tive. This is usually the case for closed processing
systems such as heat exchangers, valves, pipes or
fluid lines used to convey milk or other liquid food
products. These types of food processing systems
are typically cleaned without disassembling each
section using the second method of cleaning that
was briefly mentioned before - a Clean-In-Place or
CIP system.
For CIP systems, specially formulated low foaming
detergents are usually required for cleaning. These
detergent solutions are pumped through equipment
lines at pre-determined intervals for routine cleaning. It may be necessary to periodically
disassemble the entire system for more thorough cleaning. It is important to follow manu-
facturers directions for these systems and select the proper cleaning and sanitizing chemi-
cals to prevent product contamination.
module 7 • page 18 of 44
Other Types of Cleaning Equipment and
Pressure Washing
Cleaning Machines: Some food processing facilities may use special types of cleaning
equipment such as automated dishwashers, tote washers, rack washers, or other types of
cleaning cabinets. This equipment should be operated according to the manufacturers direc-
tions and properly maintained so that it cleans your equipment adequately without damaging
it. The FDA Food Code and most local and state regulations have specific requirements for
the installation and operation of equipment such as dishwashers.
Pressure Washers: Pressure washers are widely available and it is tempting to consider us-
ing them for cleaning food processing areas to remove dirt and food debris. However, pres-
sure washers should not be used because of the potential for re-contaminating cleaned
areas. Cleaning in food processing areas generally starts from the top down (walls to equip-
ment to floor). When a high pressure spray hits the floor, a mist will be created that contains
the water, dirt, food debris and harmful bacteria like Listeria that are likely to be on the floor.
These contaminants will then settle on and re-contaminate the surfaces that have already
been cleaned. This problem will be even worse if high pressure is directed at or near floor
drains, which are likely to contain harmful bacteria.
Summary: Whether you are using a manual or CIP system, you need to choose the right
detergent and application system for the types of soils and equipment at your facility. You
should always check the directions on the label of your detergents to make sure that you are
using the proper amount, the right water temperature, and an effective application method.
You also need to make sure that your detergents are properly labeled and stored so that they
will not contaminate the food you are receiving, storing or processing.
module 7 • page 19 of 44
Sanitizing or Disinfection
After cleaning, you need to apply a sanitizer to kill
any bacteria or other microorganisms that may still be
present. Remember, sanitizers are less effective when
food debris is present. Food contact surfaces must be
completely free of food residue before sanitizers are
applied.
Traditionally the words disinfect and disinfectants
were used to respectively describe the procedures and
agents used to kill microorganisms and reduce their
numbers to a safe level. In the GMP regulation, and in
this course, the word sanitize has the same meaning
as disinfect, and the disinfectants or agents used to kill
harmful microorganisms are called sanitizers.
Microorganisms can be destroyed by heat, chemicals, ultraviolet (UV) light, or radiation.
Two of these options, heat and chemicals, are commonly used in food processing or stor-
age facilities. Heat may be an option for sanitizing certain pieces of equipment or utensils,
but is not appropriate for large pieces of equipment, or the floors, walls, ceilings and other
parts of the plant.
module 7 • page 20 of 44
Choosing A Sanitizer
Using Sanitizers: Just like detergents, there are also many different types of sanitizers that can
be used in food processing facilities. By law, you can only use chemical sanitizers that have been
approved for use in food facilities, and specific requirements or regulations may vary from state to
state. As always, it is essential that you follow directions provided on the manufacturers label, and
that the chemicals are stored properly. If not used properly, sanitizers could make the food you
produce unsafe and harm your employees.
Choosing A Sanitizer: The following table describes the advantages and disadvantages of com-
mon sanitizers that are approved for use in food processing facilities. Click here to print out this
chart for future reference. (24k pdf)
Type of Sanitizer Advantages Disadvantages
Chlorine Kills most microorganisms May corrode metal & weaken rubber
Effective at low temperature Irritating to skin, eyes & throat
Test strips determine concentration Unstable, dissipates quickly
Relatively inexpensive Loses strength with organic material
Does not form films May be unstable at high temperature
Iodine Kills most microorganisms May stain plastic & porous materials
Less affected by organic material Inactivated above 120ºF (49ºC)
Solution color indicates activity May be unsuitable for CIP
Dissipates slowly & leaves residue
Quaternary Ammonium Non corrosive Inactivated by most detergents
Compounds Residual activity if not rinsed Ineffective for certain microorganisms
(Quats or QAC) Less affected by organic material Effectiveness varies with formulation
Test strips determine concentration May be inactivated by hard water
Can be applied as foam May be unsuitable for CIP
Chlorine Dioxide Kills most microorganisms Unstable and cannot be stored
Stronger oxidizer than chlorine Potentially explosive and toxic
Less affected by organic material Relative high initial equipment cost
Less corrosive than chlorine
Ozone Kills most microorganisms More expensive than many sanitizers
Stronger oxidizer than chlorine & Unstable and cannot be stored
chlorine dioxide May corrode metal & weaken rubber
Potentially toxic
Inactivated by organic material
Peroxy Compounds Works well on bacteria in biofilms More expensive than some sanitizers
Kills most microorganisms Inactivated by some metals
Relatively stable in use May corrode some metals
Effective at low temperature Not as effective against yeast & molds
Suitable for CIP
Continued
module 7 • page 20 of 44
Hot Water Kills most microorganisms May form films or scale on equipment
171 to 190ºF (77 to 88ºC) Penetrates irregular surfaces Potential burn hazard for employees
Suitable for CIP Contact time sensitive
Relatively inexpensive Inappropriate for general sanitation
Carboxylic Acid Kills most microorganisms Inactivated by some detergents
Sanitize and acid rinse in one step Less effective than chlorine at low
Low foaming, suitable for CIP temp.
Stable if organic material is present May damage some materials
Less affected by hard water Less affective against yeast & molds
pH sensitive
Acid-Anionic Sanitizers Sanitize and acid rinse in one step Effectiveness varies by microorganism
Very stable More expensive than some sanitizers
Less affected by organic material May corrode some metals
Can be applied at high temperature Unsuitable for CIP due to foaming
Not affected by hard water
Adapted from Sanitation Control Procedures Manual, National Seafood HACCP Alliance, Florida Sea Grant Re-
port No. 119, Gainesville, FL, 2000.
module 7 • page 21 of 44
Using Sanitizers Correctly
Just like detergents, sanitizers must be used and applied properly or they will either be
ineffective in killing microorganisms or cause damage to the plant, processing equipment,
or employees.
Concentration: First, you must use the right sanitizer at the right strength or concentra-
tion. If the sanitizer concentration is too low, you will not kill microorganisms. If the con-
centration is too high, you could make the food you produce unsafe, damage equipment,
or even harm employees. The federal regulations for sanitizing solutions in 21CFR Part
178.1010 give the maximum amount of active sanitizer that should be used in food pro-
cessing establishments. The following table gives the maximum concentration allowed and
the most commonly used concentration range for common sanitizers.
Sanitizer Concentrations Commonly Used in Food Processing Facilities
Sanitizer Concentration pH Minimum Temp.
Chlorine 50 ppm 8 or less 75°F (24°C)
100 ppm 10 or less 55°F (13°C)
Maximum 200 ppm
for FCS
Iodine 12.5 to 25 ppm 5 or less 75°F or 24°C
Maximum 25 ppm
for FCS
Quats Minimum concentra- Follow manufacturer 75°F or 24°C
tion per manufac- directions.
turer directions Water hardness must
Maximum 200 ppm be 500 ppm or less
for FCS
Chlorine dioxide 100 to 200 ppm
Maximum 200 ppm for FCS
Peroxy Compounds Minimum and Maximum amounts of hydrogen peroxide, acetic
acid, peroxyacetic acid, peroxyoctanoic acid and other ingredients
as specified for approved formulas in 21 CFR 178.1010
Maximum and minimum concentration values for Food Contact Surfaces (FCS) are specified in approved sanitizer formulas
in 21 CFR 178.1010, Sanitizing Solutions. pH and minimum temperatures are from the 2001 FDA Food Code. Contact time
is at least 1 minute. Table adapted from FDA Food Code and Sanitation Control Procedures Manual, National Seafood HACCP
Alliance, Florida Sea Grant Report No. 119, Gainesville, FL, 2000.
module 7 • page 22 of 44
Use The Right Amount of
Sanitizer
Concentration: Sanitizer concentration is measured in ppm
or parts per million. This is an extremely small amount of ac-
tive sanitizer. To help you appreciate just how small this is, 100
parts per million would be equivalent to:
• 8 1/3 feet in 16 miles; or
• 1 hour and 40 minutes in 2 years; or
• 6 ¼ pounds in 64,000 pounds; or
• One $100 dollar bill in a stack of 10,000 $100 dollar bills; or
• 100 cars in a bumper-to-bumper traffic jam from Cleveland
to San Francisco.
Making Sanitizer Solutions: To make solutions that have
the proper amount of sanitizer, you need to carefully follow the
directions for use provided on the sanitizers’ label. Because the
amount you need is so small, if even a little mistake is made
when these solutions are prepared, the concentration could be
too high or too low. That is why you need to check the concen-
tration of your sanitizing solution with a test strip each time it is
prepared and periodically during use to make sure that you have the right concentration
so that the sanitizer will work properly.
module 7 • page 23 of 44
Measuring Sanitizer Concentration
Test Strips or Kits: Your chemical supplier should be able to provide an appropriate test
strip or kit for the sanitizer that you are using. Test strips are available for chlorine, iodine,
Quats, peroxide and other sanitizers. When these test strips are dipped in the solution
that you have prepared for a certain amount of time, they will change color based on the
amount of the active sanitizer in the solution. The final color of the strip is compared to a
color chart on the container to tell you the amount of sanitizer in the solution. Each sani-
tizer will need a different test strip. For example, test strips for chlorine will not measure
iodine or Quats. You should also make sure that the strips you use are capable of mea-
suring in the concentration range that you are working with. For example, if you need to
measure chlorine in the 100 to 200 ppm range, the strip you use should not measure in
the 0 to 10ppm range.
GMP TV: Click on the GMP TV below to learn more about test strips that can be used to
measure sanitizer concentrations.
module 7 • page 24 of 44
Using Sanitizers Properly
Sanitizers, just like detergents, aren’t effective if they are not used properly. You need to
consider contact time, water, organic material or the amount of soil present in the
solution, and their application. Let’s look at each of these factors.
Contact Time: Just like detergents, sanitizers must be in contact with the cleaned surface
long enough to kill bacteria and other microorganisms. In general, sanitizers like chlorine,
iodine, and Quats need at least 1 minute of contact time with the cleaned food contact
surfaces in order to be effective. Some sanitizer formulas may have different suggested
contact times, and you should follow the directions on the sanitizers’ label. Sanitizers like
Quats may provide residual sanitizing activity over a longer period of time if the surface is
not rinsed after the sanitizer has been applied.
Water Chemistry and Temperature: The effectiveness of some sanitizers may be af-
fected by the pH (acidity or alkalinity) or the hardness of the water that is used to make
up the sanitizer solution. For example, chlorine is especially affected by pH and it will lose
its effectiveness if used in very basic (alkaline) solutions. Again, it is important to check
the directions for use on the label and prepare your sanitizer accordingly. For most appli-
cations, room temperature water at approximately 75°F (24°C) should be used to make
up sanitizer solutions.
module 7 • page 25 of 44
Using Sanitizers Properly
Organic material: Sanitizers like chlorine
will react with the organic material in food
debris that contains protein, fat or carbo-
hydrate and make the sanitizer unavailable
to kill bacteria and other microorganisms.
That is why it is necessary to clean food
contact surfaces to remove this soil before
they are sanitized. If sanitizers are used
in solutions where employees are dipping
their hands, the amount of available sani-
tizer also decreases as organic material
builds up. For this reason you need to pe-
riodically check the concentration of these
solutions during the work day and change
them as often as necessary.
Application: Just like detergents, you may
also need to consider how you will apply a sanitizer solution to food contact surfaces,
equipment, floors and walls after cleaning. For utensils and portable items, it is easy
to immerse them in a sanitizing solution after cleaning. For large pieces of equipment,
walls and floors it may be necessary to spray the sanitizer solution onto the surface in
a way that will ensure that it is in contact with the surface for at least 1 minute or for
the time suggested by the manufacturer. Options can include portable sprayers or even
in-line metered systems that mix the proper amount of sanitizer and water. Application
methods and tools can often be provided by your chemical supplier.
module 7 • page 26 of 44
Additional Resources
If you would like to learn more technical details about cleaning and sanitizing chemicals,
how they work, and how to use them, click on the links below to university fact sheets.
More information is also available from trade associations, university or extension food
safety specialists, and government agencies. Click on the buttons below to review these re-
sources. Use your browsers BACK button at the top of the screen to return to this module.
There are many different chemical suppliers. Most of them have a national network of dis-
tributors. One way to locate a chemical supplier would be to check your yellow page list-
ings under food processing or restaurant equipment and supplies. For additional informa-
tion, Click on the following links which contain directories of many different chemical and
cleaning suppliers across the U.S.
module 7 • page 27 of 44
Basic Cleaning and Sanitizing Procedure
So far this module has discussed the things you should consider when selecting cleaning
and sanitizing products. Now you need to develop and implement a procedure for clean-
ing and sanitizing everything in your processing facility. To do this you should start with a
basic procedure for proper cleaning and sanitizing, and then identify any variations that
may be needed for various areas of the plant, specific processing or storage equipment
like refrigeration units, and portable equipment and utensils. Let’s look at the basic steps
that should be included in a complete cleaning and sanitizing procedure.
module 7 • page 28 of 44
Developing Your Cleaning and Sanitizing
Procedures
General Components: You can use the information provided in this Module to develop
effective cleaning and sanitizing procedures for your operation to meet GMP requirements.
The GMP requires you to have effective procedures but it does not currently require that
they be written down. Each procedure should include how and what you will clean and
sanitize, where and when this will be done, and who will do it.
Basic Procedures: The basic 10 Step procedure described on the previous page can
be used to help you develop a procedure that describes how you will clean and sanitize.
Some operations may only need one or two procedures. For example, one procedure for
cleaning all equipment and fixed items like tables, conveyors, and processing machines,
and another procedure for portable items and utensils using a three-compartment sink.
More complex operations may need to develop separate procedures for different areas of
the plant, for different pieces of equipment, or for different processing systems. You will
also need procedures for cleaning and sanitizing cleaning tools like brushes, pads, scrap-
ers, brooms, and squeegees.
Customized Procedures: For each procedure you must decide which cleaning agents
and sanitizer will be used, the concentration that is needed, and how they will be applied.
You may need different cleaners, sanitizers, and application methods for different parts of
the facility or pieces of equipment. These different procedures should be included in your
sanitation procedure to be sure that employees who do routine or periodic cleaning and
sanitizing tasks know exactly how to clean and sanitize each utensil, piece of equipment,
or processing area.
module 7 • page 29 of 44
Developing Your Cleaning and Sanitizing
Procedures
Set Up A Schedule: You must also
decide when and how often you need
to clean and sanitize your facility and its
equipment and utensils. At a minimum,
it is likely that all food contact surfaces
will need to be cleaned and sanitized at
least once per day, and those areas that
become dirty during processing may
need to be cleaned and sanitized more
than once per day. Some areas or equip-
ment such as refrigerated coolers, freez-
ers, or dry storage areas may only need
to be cleaned and sanitized periodically.
Your procedure should describe when
each routine and periodic task should be
completed. The goal of the GMP require-
ment is to make sure that you protect
food from being contaminated with filth and harmful bacteria on unclean food contact
surfaces.
Assign Tasks: Finally, your cleaning and sanitizing procedure should indicate who is
responsible for cleaning and sanitizing tasks. Some firms may have a dedicated clean-
ing crew who conducts these tasks after food handling or processing stops at the end of
the shift or workday. Others may assign specific cleaning and sanitizing tasks to produc-
tion employees that must be completed at the end of their shift. Each employee who has
a cleaning and sanitizing responsibility must be trained to understand why their task is
important and how to do it properly.
module 7 • page 30 of 44
Monitoring The Effectiveness of Your
Procedures
Monitoring: Because cleaning and sanitizing is so
important to protect the food you are processing
from contamination, you should monitor these ac-
tivities. At a minimum, a supervisor or other des-
ignated person should visually inspect equipment,
utensils and other food contact surfaces to make
sure that they are clean before food is handled
and processed each day. Cleaning and sanitizing
tasks should also be monitored routinely to make
sure that the procedures you have developed are
being conducted properly.
Monitoring Tools: Because visual inspections are
subjective, you may also want to periodically measure how effective your procedures are.
Several types of tools are available to help you measure the effectiveness of your cleaning
and sanitizing procedures. However, the GMP only requires that your sanitation procedures
be effective, it does not require testing. Since these monitoring tools can be expensive,
each firm must decide whether or not they are needed and how to use them.
Sanitation test kits are available to measure the amount of organic material (food de-
bris and bacteria) on a surface. This type of test involves swabbing a food contact surface
that has been cleaned and sanitized. The swab is then exposed to an enzyme solution that
reacts with a particular chemical in food debris and soil to produce light. The amount of
light produced is measured by an instrument that indicates how much organic material
was picked up on the swab. Other quick test kits can detect protein or sugars on food con-
tact surfaces. A food contact surface is swabbed and the swab is immersed in a solution
that reacts with the protein or sugar on the swab to produce a color that shows how well
the surface was cleaned.
These measurements do not distinguish between living bacteria and food debris, but
provide a general estimate of cleanliness. Several different companies manufacture instru-
ments or test kits to measure cleanliness. Check with your sanitation supplier or search
the Internet using the terms ATP Testing or Luminometers.
module 7 • page 31 of 44
Monitoring The Effectiveness of Your Proce-
dures
Bacterial Testing: In some situations, you may
want to know if bacteria have survived the cleaning
and sanitizing process on surfaces. Test kits, such
as contact plates, are available for some types of
bacteria. These plates are touched to the surface to
be tested and stored at the proper temperature for
one or more days. The plates are visually checked
to estimate the number of bacteria that were on
the surface. For some food products, there may be
specific requirements for testing for certain types
of bacteria like Listeria, E. coli, or Salmonella. Food
testing laboratories can provide the necessary sup-
plies to take appropriate samples and determine if
these bacteria are present.
Resource Information: One useful resource for information on commercial test kits for
different types of bacteria can be found on the Internet in the Compendium of Fish and
Fishery Product Processes, Hazards, and Controls at the University of California at Davis.
For information on testing for different types of bacteria click here. When you get to this
site, click on the organism or test of interest in the Biological Hazards section, and then
click on commercial test kits.
module 7 • page 32 of 44
GMP Requirements for Cleaning and
Sanitizing
Now that you have a basic understanding of how to clean and sanitize your facility and
measure the effectiveness of your program, complying with the GMP requirements should
be easy. Let’s take a look at those requirements and what you can do to meet them.
GMP Requirement: General maintenance. Buildings, fixtures and other physical fa-
cilities of the plant shall be maintained in a sanitary condition and shall be kept
in repair sufficient to prevent food from becoming adulterated. Cleaning and sanitizing
of utensils and equipment shall be conducted in a manner that protects against
the contamination of food, food-contact surfaces, or food packaging materials.
Maintenance: The first part of this GMP requirement says that not only your building, but
also everything in the facility must be kept in a sanitary condition to prevent the food that
you receive, process or store from getting contaminated.
The control strategies that we reviewed earlier for the maintenance of your facility, its
equipment, and your employee’s practices in Modules 3, 4, 5 and 6 are included in the
GMP to make sure that you can maintain your facility in a sanitary condition. To comply
with this part of the GMP you also need to have procedures to clean and sanitize those
parts of your facility that may not come in direct contact with food, but may eventually
lead to food or food contact surface contamination if they are not kept in a sanitary condi-
tion.
Cleaning and Sanitizing Equipment and Utensils: The second part of this GMP re-
quirement says that you must clean and sanitize your equipment and utensils in a way
that will protect your food and anything that comes into contact with food from contami-
nation. This will require that the procedures that are routinely used to clean and sanitize
equipment and utensils will not contaminate any food in your facility. For example, this
is why it is necessary to remove all food products from the area before you begin your
cleaning procedures.
module 7 • page 33 of 44
Sanitation of Food Contact Surfaces
GMP Requirement: Sanitation of food contact surfaces. All food contact surfaces, in-
cluding utensils and food contact surfaces of equipment, shall be cleaned as frequently
as necessary to protect against contamination of food.
Food Contact Surfaces: This part of the GMP focuses on all of the things in your opera-
tion that will come into contact with food. These food contact surfaces include things like:
cutting boards, food preparation tables, conveyor belts, processing machinery, knives,
spoons, other utensils, pans, tubs, totes, ice and any other item that will come in direct
contact with food during handling, processing, or storage.
Frequency of Cleaning: This GMP requirement says that all food contact surfaces must
be cleaned as frequently as necessary to prevent contamination. There is no rule for
deciding how often it is necessary to clean all of the different pieces of equipment or uten-
sils in your plant that may come in contact with food. Most food contact surfaces should
be cleaned at a minimum of once a day depending on the food being processed. In some
cases equipment and utensils may need to be cleaned after every use. Also, if a piece of
equipment is accidently contaminated by the plant environment itself, it would need to be
cleaned. For example, if someone uses a high pressure hose to clean the floor, and the
water from the dirty floor splashes onto cleaned food contact surfaces, those food contact
surfaces would need to be re-cleaned and re-sanitized before they are used.
Factors that Effect Frequency Can Include:
• The type of food.
• Whether the processing environment is wet or dry.
• The ambient temperature in the processing area.
Every operation must determine how often cleaning and sanitizing is necessary based on
their processing activities, the types of equipment used, and most importantly on the food
that is being processed. For example, if you are processing a ready-to-eat product (a food
that will not be cooked before it is eaten) then cleaning and sanitizing may need to be
done more frequently to prevent these foods from being contaminated by harmful bacteria
like Listeria.
module 7 • page 34 of 44
Special Requirements for Low Moisture
Foods and Wet Processing
GMP Requirement: Food contact surfaces used for manufacturing or holding low
moisture food shall be in a dry, sanitary condition at the time of use. When the
surfaces are wet-cleaned, they shall, when necessary, be sanitized and thoroughly dried
before subsequent use.
GMP Requirement: In wet processing, when cleaning is necessary to protect against
the introduction of microorganisms into food, all food contact surfaces shall be
cleaned and sanitized before use and after any interruption during which the
food contact surfaces may have become contaminated. Where equipment and uten-
sils are used in a continuous production operation, the utensils and food contact
surfaces of the equipment shall be cleaned and sanitized as necessary.
The GMP has special requirements for two different types of food that can help you decide
both how and how often food contact surfaces should be cleaned and sanitized.
Low moisture foods are foods like grain or cereal products, baked goods, and dried
foods that have a low amount of moisture. Because there is not enough water available in
these foods, harmful microorganisms cannot grow. We will discuss the appropriate mois-
ture content for these foods further in our review of process controls in Module 10. This
part of the GMP requires that equipment, utensils or other items that come in contact with
these foods must be dry to prevent these foods from absorbing moisture. It also states
that if this equipment is wet cleaned, it must be thoroughly dried before it is used.
Wet processing activities are generally used for foods like seafood, meat, poultry, fruits,
and vegetables. Because it is much easier for contaminants like bacteria and other micro-
organisms to contaminate food contact surfaces in a wet environment, this GMP require-
ment says that firms that receive, store or process these foods must clean and sanitize
equipment, utensils and any other food contact surface before it is used and after any
interruption in processing activities that could have caused them to get contaminated. For
continuous operations, the GMP requires processors to use good judgment to decide how
often it is necessary to clean and sanitize equipment to prevent contamination.
module 7 • page 35 of 44
Non-Food Contact Surfaces of Equipment
GMP Requirement: Non-food contact surfaces of equipment used in operation of food
plants should be cleaned as frequently as necessary to protect against the contami-
nation of food.
The GMP also requires that the parts of equipment that do not routinely come in con-
tact with food must also be cleaned as often as necessary to prevent contamination. This
requirement is included because of the potential for dirty water and harmful bacteria or
other microorganisms to be easily transferred to the parts of the equipment that do come
in contact with food when it is being used.
Each operation must evaluate the equipment that they use and determine how and when
non-food contact parts of equipment need to be cleaned. For some items such as knives,
both food and non-food contact parts are likely to be cleaned and sanitized at the same
time. For large pieces of processing machinery it may be necessary to clean or sanitize
food contact surfaces once or more per day, but other parts that do not come in direct
contact with food may only need to be cleaned and sanitized every few days or once per
week, depending on how they are used and the likelihood of contamination.
module 7 • page 36 of 44
Storage of Cleaned Equipment & Single
Service Articles
GMP Requirement: Storage and handling of cleaned portable equipment and utensils.
Cleaned and sanitized portable equipment and utensils should be stored in a lo-
cation and manner that protects food contact surfaces from contamination.
GMP Requirement: Single service articles (such as utensils intended for one time use,
paper cups and paper towels) should be stored in appropriate containers and shall
be handled, dispensed, used, and disposed of in a manner that protects against
contamination of food or food contact surfaces.
These two parts of the GMP are included to make sure that equipment, utensils, and other
food contact surfaces are stored properly after they are cleaned and sanitized so that they
do not become contaminated before they are used. Disposable or single-use items must
also be stored properly to prevent contamination that could be transferred to food.
Proper Storage Conditions: Cleaned equipment and utensils should be stored in a lo-
cation that will allow them to dry and prevent them from getting contaminated by work
activities or the plant environment. At a minimum, cleaned items should never be stored
on the floor, which is likely to be the dirtiest part of the plant. Cleaned items should be
stored in a way that will prevent water from splashing or dripping on them. For reference,
the FDA Food Code requires cleaned equipment, utensils, single use items, and laundered
linens to be stored at a minimum of 6 inches above the floor. Items that have been wet
cleaned should be stored in a dry environment, turned upside down or otherwise allowed
to drain and protected from dust.
module 7 • page 37 of 44
Equipment Storage
GMP TV: Click on the GMP TV below to learn more about proper storage of cleaned equip-
ment, utensils or other items that come in direct contact with food.
module 7 • page 38 of 44
What You Can Do
To meet the general GMP requirements for cleaning and sanitizing food contact surfaces,
equipment, utensils, and non-food contact surfaces in the plant environment as necessary
you need to:
Develop sanitation procedures for equipment, utensils, containers, processing areas,
and all other plant facilities as necessary. These procedures must be effective but the
GMP does not currently require that they be written down.
A complete sanitation procedure should describe:
• What areas of your facility and what equipment and utensils need to be cleaned
and sanitized.
• How each item or area will be cleaned and sanitized including:
• The chemical cleaning and sanitizing products to be used.
• Instructions on how to prepare cleaning and sanitizing solutions properly and
test or verify their concentration.
• Instructions on how to apply these solutions.
• The cleaning tools to be used for each task.
• Instructions for each of the steps in the procedure and their proper order or se-
quence.
• Instructions for proper storage of cleaned equipment.
• When each cleaning and sanitizing task will be done.
• Who will conduct each task.
Different types of procedures may be needed. For example, some operations may
need one procedure for cleaning and sanitizing the tables, walls and floors for their
entire plant at the end of the day. Other firms may need one procedure for the area
of the plant that handles raw products, and a different procedure for the area of the
plant where finished products are packaged. You may also need different procedures
for different pieces of equipment that are cleaned and sanitized in place, and for por-
table items and utensils that are cleaned and sanitized in a three-compartment sink.
Implement each of the cleaning and sanitation procedures that are needed. Imple-
mentation includes purchasing the necessary chemicals and equipment to complete
all tasks, placing these items in the proper location, and storing them properly.
Train employees who have cleaning and sanitizing responsibilities to make sure that
they understand what tasks must be completed and how to conduct them properly.
Monitor cleaning and sanitizing activities to make sure that they are conducted prop-
erly and consistently. Monitoring could include testing to verify that the procedures
developed are effective.
module 7 • page 39 of 44
How To Monitor
Periodic checks of the condition of the
facility, equipment and utensils should
be conducted as described in Modules
3, 4, 5 and 6 to make sure that they
are in acceptable condition. Cleaning
and sanitizing activities should be rou-
tinely checked to be sure that they are
conducted properly and at the proper
time as described in your sanitation
procedure. This may include monitor-
ing the proper use of detergents and
cleaning aids, sanitizers, and cleaning
and sanitizing procedures. Additional
periodic checks using monitoring tools
for cleanliness and/or tests for specific
types of bacteria should be conducted
as needed or required by regulations
for certain types of food products. Although the current GMP does not require monitoring
records, you may want to keep a record of the results of your observations for your own
use. If any corrections are necessary to correct problems, those actions should also be
noted on a written record.
module 7 • page 40 of 44
Use Safe and Effective Cleaners and
Sanitizers
GMP Requirement: Sanitizing agents shall be adequate and safe under conditions of
use. Any facility, procedure, or machine is acceptable for cleaning and sanitizing equipment
and utensils if it is established that the facility, procedure, or machine will routinely render
equipment and utensils clean and provide adequate cleaning and sanitizing treatment.
GMP Requirement: Substances used in cleaning and sanitizing. Cleaning compounds
and sanitizing agents used in cleaning and sanitizing procedures shall be free
from undesirable microorganisms and shall be safe and adequate under the con-
ditions of use. Compliance with this requirement may be verified by any effective means
including purchase of these substances under a supplier’s guarantee or certification, or
examination of these substances for contamination.
These two sections of the GMP require that the sanitizing agents used in food establish-
ments be effective and safe to use and that you have some type of documentation that
the products that you are using are acceptable and free of contamination from undesirable
microorganisms.
module 7 • page 41 of 44
Use Safe and Effective Cleaners and Sanitizers
Use Approved Sanitizers: There are specific regulations that identify what sanitizing so-
lutions are acceptable. This regulation is found in Part 178 of Title 21 of the Code of Fed-
eral Regulations. Part 178.1010 states that:
Sanitizing solutions may be safely used on food processing equipment and utensils, and
on other food contact articles within the following conditions:
a: Sanitizing solutions are used, followed by adequate draining, before contact with food.
b: The solutions consist of one of the following, to which may be added components that
are generally regarded as safe or components which are permitted by prior sanction
or approval. The remaining section of this regulation describes 46 different acceptable
sanitizing solutions and the minimum concentrations of active sanitizer that are needed
for each type.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also has regulations related to sanitizers
in Part 180 of Title 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations. This regulation describes EPA
tolernace exemptions for active and inert ingredients for use in anti-microbial formula-
tions. Food contact surface sanitizing solutions can be found in section 180.940.
Click on the buttons below to see these regulations. Use your browsers BACK button at
the top of the screen to return to this module.
FDA-Approved Sanitizers in 21 CFR Part 178 EPA-Tolerance Exemptions 40 CFR Part 180
Use Effective Procedures: These GMP requirements also say that the procedures,
equipment or service that is used for cleaning and sanitizing must be acceptable, and
that you need assurance that they will routinely provide adequate cleaning and sanitiz-
ing. Standard cleaning and sanitizing procedures identified in reference information from
government, university, or trade associations should be acceptable if implemented prop-
erly. One such standard procedure was provided earlier in this Module. When using special
sanitizing equipment, you may need technical information or a statement from the manu-
facturer indicating that it provides adequate cleaning and sanitizing consistent with cur-
rent regulations if used according to instructions.
module 7 • page 42 of 44
What You Can Do
To meet the GMP requirements to use safe and effective cleaning and sanitizing agents
that are free from harmful microorganisms you need to:
Evaluate all cleaning and sanitizing agents used in your facility to determine if they
are approved for use in food establishments.
Obtain written documentation from the manufacturer or supplier of your cleaning
and sanitizing chemicals to verify that these products meet current regulations and
are approved for use in food establishments.
Check your procedures to verify that they are consistent with manufacturer rec-
ommendations and label directions for the proper use of all cleaning and sanitizing
products including test kits to verify sanitizer concentration.
Monitor chemical deliveries to verify that the proper products are received,
that the proper documentation is on file, and that the instructions for use have not
changed.
How To Monitor
Keep appropriate records from your supplier to show that the cleaning and sanitizing
chemicals that you use are approved and adequate when used properly. Monitor clean-
ing and sanitation procedures daily to be sure that they are conducted properly. Use test
strips to confirm that you have the appropriate sanitizer concentration each time that
sanitizing solutions are prepared. Although the current GMP does not require monitoring
records, you may want to keep a record of the results of your observations for your own
use. If any corrections are necessary to correct problems, those actions should also be
noted on a written record.
module 7 • page 43 of 44
Checklist Questions for GMP Requirements
in Module 7
In Module 7 we reviewed the GMP requirements for: the sanitary condition of the building
and facilities; selecting and using cleaning and sanitizing chemicals; proper cleaning and
sanitizing procedures for food contact surfaces, equipment, utensils and facilities; and the
proper storage and handling of cleaned and sanitized equipment and utensils. We have
compiled the items from the What You Can Do sections of this Module into a simplified se-
ries of questions to help you create a list of things that you may need to do to meet these
GMP requirements.
Use this list to remind yourself to:
• Evaluate the status or condition of your existing facilities or systems, and to develop a
plan to make any changes that are needed.
• Create new procedures or change existing procedures if necessary.
• Develop new monitoring procedures or change your existing procedures.
To download the Checklist below as a PDF file that you can print, click on the button.
Download Module 7 Checklist and Internet Resources
Cleaning and Sanitizing Procedures
Do you have cleaning and sanitizing procedures for all food contact surfaces, equip-
ment, utensils, processing lines, conveyors, storage units, and non food contact sur-
faces and facilities that describe:
• What cleaning and sanitizing chemicals will be used?
• How the proper solutions will be prepared and the concentration will be checked?
• How cleaning and sanitizing solutions will be applied and what cleaning tools
should be used?
• The proper sequence of steps for each cleaning and sanitizing procedure?
• When these procedures will be conducted?
• Who will conduct these procedures?
module 7 • page 43 of 44
Do you need to develop any new procedures or use new chemicals, delivery methods,
or cleaning tools or modify any existing ones? If so, how will you make the necessary
changes and where will you get the necessary chemicals, equipment or tools? What
resources are available to help such as sanitation suppliers, university specialists, or
trade associations?
Do you train employees who conduct cleaning and sanitizing activities to make sure
that they understand how to conduct procedures properly? Do you need to add new
training programs, modify existing ones, or conduct them more frequently?
Do you routinely monitor the effectiveness of cleaning and sanitizing procedures us-
ing visual inspections and testing if necessary? Do you need to develop new monitor-
ing procedures or modify existing ones?
Cleaning and Sanitizing Agent
Do you have documents from suppliers of cleaning and sanitizing chemicals that
demonstrate that they comply with all current regulations for use in food establish-
ments and are safe to use? If not, what documents are needed and how can you
obtain them?
Do you have written or label instructions that describe how to use and store all clean-
ing and sanitizing chemicals properly? If not what information is needed and how can
you obtain it?
Do you have procedures to check all deliveries of cleaning and sanitation chemicals to
make sure that they are what were ordered and that all of the necessary instructions
and documentation are on file? If not, what procedures are needed and how will they
be developed?
module 7 • page 44 of 44
Check Your Knowledge
This concludes the study material for Module 7. You now need to review the 6 ques-
tions for this Module, find the correct answer to each question, and submit your answers
while you are logged into the course with your Username and Password.
Each of the following pages has a single question that will appear on your screen. Click
on the answer you think is correct. You will see a text box that will tell you if this answer
is correct or wrong and why. When you find the correct answer, be sure to write down the
question number and the correct answer. Then move on to the next question.
Click on the Forward button at the top of this page to go to the first question.
