Food safety when cleaning
Research indicates that effective hand washing and cleaning food contact surfaces adequately reduce the spread of bacterial contamination in the home kitchen. Hand hygiene is crucial in preventing the spread of infection.
● Although hot water and antibacterial soap is the best way to clean hands, hand sanitizers can reduce bacteria on hands until they can be washed and dried adequately.
● Replace cloths/sponges frequently and wash towels at 90˚C. Used damp cloths/towels provide a perfect environment for bacterial growth and can act as a vehicle for transfer of bacteria.
● Use antibacterial cleaning products, ensuring that directions regarding contact time are adhered to as they are most effective when used as directed.
● Pets carry bacteria on the their feet and fur, it is essential to keep animals away from food contact surfaces to prevent contamination of the kitchen. If pets are allowed in the area ensure surfaces are cleaned thoroughly before preparing food.
● Follow recommended practices for cleaning surfaces and equipment such as chopping boards and knives to reduce the likelihood of cross-contamination:
→ remove visible food debris.
→ wash with hot clean water and detergent, use a clean cloth/sponge to scrub to a lather.
→ rinse with clean hot water to remove lather/bubbles.
→ allow to air dry or dry using disposable kitchen paper/clean towel not used for other tasks.
→ or use a dishwasher on the hottest cycle to ensure bacteria are removed from equipment.
● It is essential to clean hands after tasks that can contaminate your hand and before tasks that can cause cross-contamination such as:
→ before preparing food and handling ready-to-eat food products.
→ after handling raw meat/poultry/unwashed vegetables.
→ after using the toilet, sneezing/blowing nose.
→ after touching pets/animals or after contact with a litter tray.
→ after touching the bin or handling rubbish.
→ after handling soiled laundry or changing a baby’s nappy.
→ before eating or taking medication.
● To wash your hands adequately you need to:
→ wet hands under clean hot running water.
→ rub hands together for at least 20 seconds with antibacterial soap.
→ ensure nails, between fingers, around thumbs and wrists are cleaned.
→ rinse hands under hot running water.
→ dry thoroughly using disposable kitchen paper/clean towel not used for drying equipment.
