Selected Questions from our High-Risk Food Production Webinar Answered by Hygiene Experts
2025-06-06 08:31:03
After attending our "Hygiene in High-Risk Food Production: Keep it Clean and Chill" webinar, many participants reached out with insightful questions regarding food hygiene and sanitation challenges in high-risk food production facilities. While we managed to address several during the session, there were quite a few queries left unanswered due to time constraints. All of these were subsequently addressed by our experts from Vikan and Diversey via email. Here are five of the most interesting questions and their corresponding answers, slightly edited for conciseness and clarity.
1. **Is dry cleaning recommended for high-risk food production?**
It depends largely on whether dry cleaning (and dry sanitization/disinfection) can adequately mitigate the risks involved while ensuring the desired cleanliness levels. Ultimately, this decision rests with you and your team. Only you understand the specific risks you're dealing with and the acceptable thresholds. If you can devise a dry sanitation protocol that meets these criteria—validated through method testing and continuous monitoring—you could certainly adopt it. However, relying solely on dry methods might prove challenging in meeting these standards.
We highly recommend integrating dry and minimal-water cleaning approaches wherever feasible, particularly for removing bulk soil before moving onto wet cleaning procedures. This approach reduces costs and minimizes contamination risks. Effective dry or low-moisture techniques include alcohol-based cleaners, air guns, fogging, heating, dry ice blasting, and microfiber cloth cleaning.
2. **Would you recommend using enzymatic cleaners?**
Yes, if the cost is reasonable and you’re confident your sanitation protocols are being adhered to. Enzymes can enhance cleaner performance, but their marketing claims should be critically evaluated. Most of the cleaning action comes from the detergent components like surfactants, which act quickly, whereas enzyme activity depends on various factors such as time, pH, and temperature.
When considering enzymatic cleaners, inquire about their usage conditions and ensure they align with your sanitation goals. For instance, one popular enzymatic cleaner requires cold water, otherwise the enzyme becomes inactive.
For additional guidance, feel free to reach out to David Buckley at [david@].
3. **Are there specialized cleaning tools that are more efficient in high-risk facilities?**
Proper selection and management of cleaning tools are crucial since they can either prevent or spread contamination. Hygienically designed tools—those easy to clean—are vital in reducing cross-contamination risks. These tools should meet global food safety standards like BRCGS and FSSC22000. Look for tools featuring:
- Rounded edges and smooth surfaces
- No hard-to-clean crevices or recesses
- One-piece construction or easily dismantled parts
- Food-safe materials
Vikan’s Ultra-Safe Technology brushes and Ultra-Hygiene squeegees are excellent examples of hygienically designed tools. However, even the best tools need proper maintenance, storage, and cleaning. Learn more about choosing hygienically designed tools in our white paper at [link].
For further assistance, contact Deb Smith at [debsmith@] or Amit M. Kheradia at [amit@].
4. **What are the recommendations for approved cleaners for an organic-certified site?**
The National Organic Program (NOP) offers limited flexibility when it comes to chemical cleaners. We are unaware of any NOP-compliant cleaners. However, non-food contact surfaces like floors and drains don’t necessarily require special cleaners. Additionally, food contact surfaces need only be rinsed before applying the final sanitizer.
Our preferred sanitizer is Peroxyacetic acid (PAA), commonly used for produce washing or as a hard surface sanitizer. For eco-friendly options, look for EPA Safer Choice certified products.
For more details, email David Buckley at [david@].
5. **How can Vikan and Remco assist high-risk food production facilities with their hygiene and sanitation challenges?**
Vikan has been providing innovative, hygienic cleaning solutions to the food and beverage industry for over 125 years. Following the 2018 acquisition of Remco, our offerings now include food handling tools and equipment.
To support your food safety and sanitation initiatives, consider the following resources:
- Visit our website [www.vikan.com] for detailed product information, sector insights, and our hygiene expertise.
- Subscribe to our monthly newsletter for the latest updates, product releases, webinars, and events.
- Book a free site survey with a regional representative to assess your hygiene practices and receive tailored recommendations.
Our Virtual Site Survey Service recently won the Best New Product/Service Award from The Society of Food Hygiene and Technology (SOHFT). Contact us for more information.
Please remember, the advice provided here reflects the professional opinions of our hygiene experts and does not constitute endorsements of specific products or services. Conduct your own risk assessments and tailor your solutions accordingly.
For further inquiries, contact Deb Smith at [debsmith@] or David Buckley at [david@].
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