What are chemical sanitizers used for in food service?

Chemical sanitizers play a crucial role in food service by effectively killing harmful bacteria and other pathogens on food contact surfaces. Ensuring that surfaces are sanitized is vital to maintaining food safety and preventing foodborne illnesses, as these surfaces include countertops, cutting boards, and equipment that come into direct contact with food.

The purpose of using chemical sanitizers is not related to enhancing the taste or color of food, nor are they intended for aesthetic purposes like removing stains from equipment. Instead, their primary function is to reduce the microbial load on surfaces to acceptable safety levels, thereby helping to protect public health. Proper use of these sanitizers, in accordance with manufacturer instructions, is essential for ensuring their effectiveness in creating a safe food preparation environment.