Must surfaces be cleaned after any potential contamination?

Surfaces must be cleaned after any potential contamination to ensure food safety and prevent the risk of foodborne illness. This practice is fundamental in maintaining hygiene standards in food service and preparation areas. Clean surfaces help eliminate pathogens that may have come into contact with food, utensils, or hands. Regular cleaning after potential contamination is part of a broader food safety strategy that includes proper sanitation and prevention practices.

In food environments, it's crucial to understand that mere visibility of dirt is not the only criterion for cleaning, as bacteria and viruses can be present even when surfaces look clean. Therefore, the approach to cleaning should be proactive rather than reactive, meaning that surfaces should be cleaned routinely and immediately after any activity that could lead to contamination, regardless of whether they appear dirty.