What is the purpose of sanitizing food contact surfaces?

The purpose of sanitizing food contact surfaces is to reduce harmful bacteria and prevent foodborne illnesses. Sanitization is a critical step in food safety as it helps eliminate pathogens that can contaminate food and lead to health risks for consumers. While cleaning surfaces to remove visible dirt is important, it does not necessarily eliminate bacteria. Sanitizing goes a step further by using chemicals or heat to kill remaining germs that cleaning alone may not address. This process is essential in maintaining a safe food preparation environment and ensuring public health.