How should food workers keep garbage cans clean and free of buildup?
A Sanitize the cans daily
B Use plastic liners in the cans
C Keep food waste in outdoor dumpsters
D Apply a pesticide to the bottom of the cans
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct answer is B. Use plastic liners in the cans.
Explanation:
Maintaining clean and hygienic garbage cans is essential for food safety in any food establishment. Food waste can quickly build up in trash bins, and if not properly managed, it can lead to bacterial growth, unpleasant odors, and contamination risks. To avoid these issues, food workers must adopt best practices to ensure the cleanliness and sanitation of garbage cans.
Option B: Use plastic liners in the cans is the most effective solution to prevent buildup. Plastic liners are commonly used because they make it easier to remove waste and prevent food debris from sticking to the sides or bottom of the trash can. These liners act as a barrier, keeping garbage from directly contacting the can’s interior surfaces. When a liner is removed, the can is left clean, and workers can replace the liner with a fresh one. This process prevents waste from lingering inside the can and reduces the risk of contamination, making it much easier to maintain cleanliness in between trash removal cycles.
Option A: Sanitize the cans daily is a good practice, but it is not the most immediate and effective approach to keeping the cans free from buildup. While sanitizing the cans regularly can help control germs and bacteria, using plastic liners is a more efficient method to prevent waste buildup in the first place. In addition, daily sanitizing can be time-consuming and labor-intensive.
Option C: Keep food waste in outdoor dumpsters is not an ideal solution for keeping garbage cans clean in the food preparation area. Outdoor dumpsters are usually more difficult to control and might attract pests. Keeping waste in the kitchen or prep area ensures that garbage cans are used consistently and minimizes cross-contamination risks.
Option D: Apply a pesticide to the bottom of the cans is an unsafe and unnecessary practice. Pesticides should not be used in food handling areas as they can contaminate food surfaces and present health risks to consumers.
In conclusion, using plastic liners in garbage cans is the most effective and hygienic method to manage waste, keep garbage cans clean, and reduce contamination risks in a food service setting.