Principles of Food Sanitation

deposits of fats and proteins require a
heavy-duty alkaline cleaning compound.
Mineral deposits and other soils that are
not successfully removed by alkaline clean-
ers require acidic cleaning compounds. The
most frequently used types of cleaner-sani-
tizers are phosphates complexed with
organic chlorine. A discussion of other fac-
tors that are also important in determining
which cleaning compound is most effective
will follow. Table 9–7 illustrates appropriate
compound application and the prevention
of various soils.

Soil Deposition

The amount of soil to be removed affects
the alkalinity or acidity of the cleaning com-
pound used, and determines which surfac-
tants and sequestrants may be needed. The
extent of soil deposition and the selection of
an appropriate cleaning compound affect the
degree of cleaning.
The kind of soil deposit also dictates
which class of cleaning compounds should
be used. Soil characteristics also indicate
which protection auxiliaries and cleaning
auxiliaries are needed, which ultimately
determines the degree of cleaning.

Temperature and Concentration of Cleaning
Compound Solution
As the temperature and concentration of
the cleaning compound solution increase,
the activity of the compound increases.

However, an extreme temperature (above

55ºC) and concentration exceeding recom-

mendations of the manufacturer or supplier

can cause protein denaturation of the soil

deposits, which can reduce the effectiveness

of soil removal.

Cleaning Time

As the length of time, that the cleaning

compound is in direct contact with the soil

increases, the surface becomes cleaner. The

method of cleaning compound application

and the characteristics of the cleaner affect

this exposure time.

Mechanical Force Used

The amount of mechanical energy in the

form of agitation and high-pressure spray

will affect the penetration of the cleaning

compound and the physical separation of

soil from the surface. The amount of agita-

tion also helps in soil removal. Chapter 11

discusses further the role of mechanical

energy (cleaning equipment) in soil removal.

Handling and storage precautions.........................................................

Careless use of cleaning compounds is a

health hazard and safety threat. Sanitors

should be trained for the proper use of these

chemicals and supplied with appropriate

safety clothing (gloves, boots, glasses, etc.).

Furthermore, U.S. safety regulations require

that Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) be

available to all employees involved in these

operations.

Most cleaners, except the liquid materials,

are classified as hygroscopic in nature. They

will absorb moisture when left exposed;

thus, the product will deteriorate or cake in

the container. Containers must be resealed

properly after use to prevent contamina-

tion and to keep these materials free from

moisture.

Cleaning Compounds 157

Table 9–6U.S. Geological Survey Definitions
for Water Hardness

Hardness Parts per million (mg/L)

Very hard >180
Hard 120–180
Moderately Hard 60–120
Soft 0–60

Source:Reprinted from U.S. Geological Survey.