Question 1

What is the difference between cleaning and sanitizing?

Accepted Answer

Cleaning removes visible dirt and food residue, while sanitizing reduces harmful microorganisms to safe levels. Both steps are necessary — sanitizing alone is ineffective on a dirty surface.

Question 2

Why must a surface be cleaned BEFORE it is sanitized?

Accepted Answer

Dirt and organic matter block sanitizers from reaching and killing pathogens, making the sanitizer ineffective. A sanitizer can only work properly on a clean surface.

Question 3

What does the term 'sanitize' mean in a food service context?

Accepted Answer

Sanitizing means reducing the number of harmful microorganisms on a surface to safe levels as defined by public health standards. It does not necessarily kill all microorganisms.

Question 4

What are the two methods used to sanitize food contact surfaces?

Accepted Answer

The two methods are heat sanitizing (using hot water) and chemical sanitizing (using approved sanitizing chemicals). Both must achieve the required reduction in pathogens.

Question 5

Which surfaces in a food establishment MUST be sanitized?

Accepted Answer

All food contact surfaces — including cutting boards, knives, prep tables, equipment, and utensils — must be cleaned and sanitized. Non-food contact surfaces only need to be cleaned.

Food Handler Certification: Cleaning & Sanitizing

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