How often should food contact surfaces be cleaned and sanitized?

Food contact surfaces should be cleaned and sanitized after each use or when switching between different food items to ensure the safety and integrity of the food being prepared. This practice is crucial in preventing cross-contamination, which can lead to foodborne illnesses. For instance, if a cutting board is used for raw meat and then for vegetables without proper cleaning and sanitizing in between, harmful bacteria from the meat can transfer to the vegetables, posing a serious health risk.

Maintaining this standard of cleaning and sanitization helps uphold food safety regulations and ensures a safe cooking environment, especially in a high-volume setting like Walmart. Proper practices in maintaining clean surfaces are essential not just for safety, but also for consumer confidence in the food products being offered.