Cleaning, sanitizing and equipment: practice questions
110 questions on cleaning, sanitizing and equipment, each with the FDA Food Code section it comes from.
1. When selecting materials for food-contact surfaces, which physical characteristic is required to ensure the surface can be effectively cleaned?
Answer: The surface must be finished to have a smooth, easily cleanable finish. Food-contact surfaces must be smooth so that dirt and bacteria can be easily removed during cleaning.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-101.11: “Finished to have a SMOOTH, EASILY CLEANABLE surface;”
2. What durability standard must utensil materials meet regarding their interaction with cleaning processes?
Answer: They must be sufficient in weight and thickness to withstand repeated warewashing. Materials need enough mass and thickness to survive the rigors of frequent washing without breaking or deforming.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-101.11: “Sufficient in weight and thickness to withstand repeated WAREWASHING;”
3. Which property is essential for materials used in food-contact surfaces to prevent contamination from the material itself?
Answer: They may not allow the migration of deleterious substances or impart colors, odors, or tastes to food. The material must remain inert so it does not alter the taste, smell, appearance, or safety of the food.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-101.11: “Materials that are used in the construction of UTENSILS and FOOD-CONTACT SURFACES of EQUIPMENT may not allow the migration of deleterious substances or impart colors, odors, or tastes to FOOD”
4. To maintain hygiene standards, what resistance qualities should food-contact surfaces possess against physical damage?
Answer: They must be resistant to pitting, chipping, crazing, scratching, scoring, distortion, and decomposition. Surfaces must resist various forms of physical damage to maintain a smooth, cleanable state over time.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-101.11: “Resistant to pitting, chipping, crazing, scratching, scoring, distortion, and decomposition.”
5. In which specific scenario is the use of cast iron permitted for food-contact surfaces or utensils?
Answer: When used as a surface for cooking. The code allows cast iron for cooking surfaces, while restricting its general use for other utensils or surfaces unless part of a continuous serving process.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-101.12: “Cast iron may be used as a surface for cooking.”
6. Under what condition may cast iron utensils be used for serving food?
Answer: If the utensils are used only as part of an uninterrupted process from cooking through service. Cast iron serving utensils are permitted only when they remain in use continuously from the cooking stage directly to the service stage without interruption.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-101.12: “Cast iron may be used in UTENSILS for serving FOOD if the UTENSILS are used only as part of an uninterrupted process from cooking through service.”
7. Which type of food container material is generally restricted from direct contact with acidic foods like vinegar or fruit juice?
Answer: Copper. The code specifies that copper should not touch acidic foods with a pH below 6, such as vinegar or juice.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-101.14: “Except as specified in ¶ (B) of this section, copper and copper alloys such as brass may not be used in contact with a FOOD that has a pH below 6 such as vinegar, fruit JUICE, or wine”
8. In which specific brewing stage are copper vessels permitted to hold ingredients with a pH below 6?
Answer: Prefermentation and fermentation. The exception allows copper use specifically during the prefermentation and fermentation steps of beer brewing.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-101.14: “Copper and copper alloys may be used in contact with beer brewing ingredients that have a pH below 6 in the prefermentation and fermentation steps of a beer brewing operation such as a brewpub or microbrewery.”
9. A food handler is selecting ceramic mugs for a coffee station. What is the maximum allowable lead level for these beverage mugs?
Answer: 0.5 mg/L. The FDA Food Code specifies that ceramic beverage mugs must contain lead levels not exceeding 0.5 mg/L.
10. When choosing pewter alloys for use as a food-contact surface, what is the maximum percentage of lead allowed?
Answer: 0.05%. Pewter alloys used for food contact must not contain more than 0.05% lead.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-101.13: “Pewter alloys containing lead in excess of 0.05% may not be used as a FOOD-CONTACT SURFACE.”
11. What is the maximum lead content permitted in solder and flux used on food-contact surfaces?
Answer: 0.2%. Solder and flux materials contacting food are limited to a maximum lead content of 0.2%.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-101.13: “Solder and flux containing lead in excess of 0.2% may not be used as a FOOD-CONTACT SURFACE.”
12. A restaurant is purchasing large hollowware bowls (excluding pitchers) with a capacity greater than 1.1 liters. What is the maximum lead limit for these items?
Answer: 1 mg/L. Large hollowware bowls exceeding 1.1 liters in capacity must have lead levels not exceeding 1 mg/L.
13. Which type of wood is permitted for use as a cutting board or rolling pin in a food establishment?
Answer: Hard maple. The code specifically allows hard maple or equivalently hard, close-grained wood for these utensils, while other woods are generally restricted.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-101.17: “Hard maple or an equivalently hard, close-grained wood may be used for: (1) Cutting boards; cutting blocks; bakers' tables; and UTENSILS such as rolling pins, doughnut dowels, salad bowls, and chopsticks;”
14. What is the minimum temperature required when using wooden paddles for pressure scraping kettles during confectionery preparation?
Answer: 110°C (230°F). Wooden paddles are only permitted for this specific task when the confection is being prepared at 110°C (230°F) or higher.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-101.17: “Wooden paddles used in confectionery operations for pressure scraping kettles when manually preparing confections at a temperature of 110oC (230oF) or above.”
15. Under what condition may whole, uncut raw fruits be kept in their original wood shipping containers?
Answer: Until the fruits are used. Whole, uncut raw produce can remain in its original wood container only until the moment it is actually used.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-101.17: “Whole, uncut, raw fruits and vegetables, and nuts in the shell may be kept in the wood shipping containers in which they were received, until the fruits, vegetables, or nuts are used.”
16. If a food requires peeling before consumption, what type of untreated container is allowed for holding the whole, uncut raw food?
Answer: Untreated wood containers. For foods that are peeled before eating, untreated wood containers are permitted for holding the whole, uncut item.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-101.17: “If the nature of the FOOD requires removal of rinds, peels, husks, or shells before consumption, the whole, uncut, raw FOOD may be kept in: (1) Untreated wood containers;”
17. When cleaning a multiuse food-contact surface that requires disassembly, which type of tool is permitted for the task?
Answer: Handheld tools commonly available to maintenance personnel, such as screwdrivers or pliers. The code specifies that handheld tools like screwdrivers and pliers are acceptable for easy disassembly to ensure accessibility for cleaning.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-202.11: “By easy disassembling with the use of handheld tools commonly available to maintenance and cleaning personnel such as screwdrivers, pliers, open-end wrenches, and Allen wrenches.”
18. Which characteristic is required for the finish of welds and joints on multiuse food-contact surfaces?
Answer: They must be smooth. Food-contact surfaces must have smooth finishes on welds and joints to prevent debris accumulation and facilitate cleaning.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-202.11: “Finished to have smooth welds and joints;”
19. Which of the following imperfections must be absent from multiuse food-contact surfaces?
Answer: Open seams and cracks. Surfaces must be free of defects like cracks and open seams to ensure they can be properly cleaned and inspected.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-202.11: “Free of breaks, open seams, cracks, chips, inclusions, pits, and similar imperfections;”
20. Which equipment component is exempt from the requirement to be accessible for cleaning without disassembly?
Answer: Cooking oil storage tanks. Cooking oil storage tanks are specifically listed as exceptions to the general accessibility rules for cleaning and inspection.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-202.11: “Subparagraph (A)(5) of this section does not apply to cooking oil storage tanks, distribution lines for cooking oils, or BEVERAGE syrup lines or tubes.”
21. What is the required design characteristic for the interior food-contact surfaces of Cleaning-in-Place (CIP) equipment?
Answer: Cleaning and sanitizing solutions must circulate throughout a fixed system and contact all interior food-contact surfaces. The code requires that the cleaning solution actively circulates to reach every interior surface within the fixed system.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-202.12: “Cleaning and SANITIZING solutions circulate throughout a fixed system and contact all interior FOOD-CONTACT SURFACES”
22. How must a Cleaning-in-Place (CIP) system handle residual cleaning and sanitizing solutions after the cycle?
Answer: It must be self-draining or capable of being completely drained. The equipment design must allow all cleaning fluids to exit the system completely, either automatically or through a drainable design.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-202.12: “The system is self-draining or capable of being completely drained of cleaning and SANITIZING solutions”
23. If a piece of CIP equipment cannot be taken apart for cleaning, what feature must it have?
Answer: Inspection access points to verify that interior surfaces are effectively cleaned. Non-disassemblable units need specific access points so workers can confirm the interior cleaning process is working.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-202.12: “shall be designed with inspection access points to ensure that all interior FOOD-CONTACT SURFACES throughout the fixed system are being effectively cleaned.”
24. What is the required accuracy tolerance for an ambient air temperature measuring device that is scaled only in Fahrenheit?
Answer: ±3°F. The code specifies that Fahrenheit-only devices must be accurate within a range of plus or minus 3 degrees Fahrenheit.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-203.12: “Ambient air and water TEMPERATURE MEASURING DEVICES that are scaled only in Fahrenheit shall be accurate to ±3oF in the intended range of use.”
25. If a food handler uses a thermometer scaled in Celsius to check ambient air temperature, what accuracy standard must the device meet?
Answer: ±1.5°C. Devices scaled in Celsius are required to have an accuracy tolerance of plus or minus 1.5 degrees Celsius.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-203.12: “Ambient air and water TEMPERATURE MEASURING DEVICES that are scaled in Celsius or dually scaled in Celsius and Fahrenheit shall be designed to be easily readable and accurate to ±1.5oC in the intended range of use.”
26. What is the maximum allowable accuracy deviation for a pressure measuring device used on mechanical warewashing equipment?
Answer: ±14 kilopascals. The regulation specifies that the device must be accurate within a margin of error of plus or minus 14 kilopascals.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-203.13: “shall be accurate to ±14 kilopascals (±2 pounds per square inch) in the range indicated on the manufacturer’s data plate.”
27. Under what condition must the dispensing compartment of a vending machine be equipped with a self-closing door or cover?
Answer: If the machine is located in an outside area that does not otherwise afford protection against environmental contaminants. The code requires a self-closing door or cover specifically when the machine is outdoors without other protective enclosures to shield food from environmental contaminants.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-204.14: “Located in an outside area that does not otherwise afford the protection of an enclosure against the rain, windblown debris, insects, rodents, and other contaminants that are present in the environment”
28. When installing a cover or lid on equipment, what specific design feature must the cover have to ensure proper drainage?
Answer: It must overlap the opening and be sloped to drain. The cover must overlap the opening and have a slope to ensure water drains away rather than pooling.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-204.12: “A cover or lid for EQUIPMENT shall overlap the opening and be sloped to drain.”
29. If a piece of equipment has an opening in the top designed for a lid, how high must the flange be?
Answer: At least 5 millimeters (two-tenths of an inch). The code specifies a minimum upward flange height of 5 millimeters for top openings designed for lids.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-204.12: “An opening located within the top of a unit of EQUIPMENT that is designed for use with a cover or lid shall be flanged upward at least 5 millimeters (two-tenths of an inch).”
30. When piping or a rotary shaft extends into equipment without a watertight joint, what component is required to protect the food?
Answer: An apron designed to deflect condensation, drips, and dust. Without a watertight joint, an apron is required to deflect contaminants like dust and drips away from the food.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-204.12: “The piping, TEMPERATURE MEASURING DEVICES, rotary shafts, and other parts extending through the openings shall be equipped with an apron designed to deflect condensation, drips, and dust from openings into the FOOD;”
31. How should the delivery tube, chute, and orifice of beverage dispensing equipment be designed to protect them from manual contact?
Answer: By being recessed. The code specifies that recessing the components is the method used to protect them from being touched by hands.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-204.13: “The delivery tube, chute, and orifice shall be protected from manual contact such as by being recessed;”
32. What must the actuating lever or mechanism of consumer self-service beverage dispensing equipment prevent?
Answer: Contact with the lip-contact surface of glasses or cups. The mechanism must be designed so that it does not touch the rim of the cup where the customer's mouth goes.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-204.13: “The dispensing EQUIPMENT actuating lever or mechanism and filling device of CONSUMER self-service BEVERAGE dispensing EQUIPMENT shall be designed to prevent contact with the lip-contact surface of glasses or cups that are refilled.”
33. What is the purpose of barriers, baffles, or drip aprons on dispensing equipment?
Answer: To divert drips from condensation and splash from the opening of the container receiving the FOOD. These features ensure that water dripping from the machine does not fall into the customer's cup.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-204.13: “The delivery tube, chute, orifice, and splash surfaces directly above the container receiving the FOOD shall be designed in a manner, such as with barriers, baffles, or drip aprons, so that drips from condensation and splash are diverted from the opening of the container receiving the FOOD;”
34. In a mechanically refrigerated unit, where should the sensor of a temperature measuring device be located?
Answer: In the warmest part of the unit. The sensor must be placed in the warmest area to ensure the entire unit is cold enough for safety.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-204.19: “the sensor of a TEMPERATURE MEASURING DEVICE shall be located to measure the air temperature or a simulated product temperature in the warmest part of a mechanically refrigerated unit”
35. What is the maximum ambient air temperature allowed in a refrigerated vending machine immediately after it is filled or serviced?
Answer: 5°C (41°F). The air temperature inside the machine must stay at or below 41°F for the first 30 minutes after restocking.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-204.19: “In a refrigerated vending machine, the ambient air temperature may not exceed 5oC (41oF) for more than 30 minutes immediately after the machine is filled, serviced, or restocked”
36. How long may the ambient air temperature in a hot holding vending machine be below 57°C (135°F) immediately after being filled?
Answer: No more than 120 minutes. Hot holding machines are allowed up to two hours for the temperature to stabilize after being restocked.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-204.19: “In a hot holding vending machine, the ambient air temperature may not be less than 57 oC (135 oF) for more than 120 minutes immediately after the machine is filled, serviced, or restocked.”
37. What is the maximum increment size for the numerical scale on a warewashing machine's temperature measuring device?
Answer: 1°C or 2°F. The temperature display must be precise, with markings no larger than 1°C or 2°F intervals.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-204.19: “FOOD TEMPERATURE MEASURING DEVICES and water TEMPERATURE MEASURING DEVICES on WAREWASHING machines shall have a numerical scale, printed record, or digital readout in increments no greater than 1oC or 2oF in the intended range of use.”
38. Under what specific circumstance is a mechanical clothes washer and dryer NOT required on the premises?
Answer: When laundering is limited to wiping cloths intended to be used moist or air-dried. The code exempts the requirement for mechanical laundry equipment if the only items washed are moist-use wiping cloths or cloths that are air-dried.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-301.15: “If on-PREMISES laundering is limited to wiping cloths intended to be used moist, or wiping cloths are air-dried as specified under § 4-901.12, a mechanical clothes washer and dryer need not be provided.”
39. What is the standard requirement for the number of compartments in a sink used for manually washing, rinsing, and sanitizing equipment and utensils?
Answer: At least 3 compartments. The standard manual warewashing setup requires a three-compartment sink to properly wash, rinse, and sanitize items.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-301.12: “Except as specified in ¶ (C) of this section, a sink with at least 3 compartments shall be provided for manually washing, rinsing, and SANITIZING EQUIPMENT and UTENSILS.”
40. When using a two-compartment sink for batch cleaning of kitchenware, how must the cleaning and sanitizing solutions be managed?
Answer: They must be made up immediately before use and drained immediately after use. For two-compartment sinks used in batch operations, solutions are prepared fresh right before cleaning and discarded right after to maintain effectiveness.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-301.12: “Make up the cleaning and SANITIZING solutions immediately before use and drain them immediately after use”
41. If equipment or utensils are too large to fit into a standard warewashing sink, what is the required alternative?
Answer: Use a warewashing machine or approved alternative equipment. Large items that do not fit in the standard sink must be cleaned using a machine or specific approved alternative equipment rather than forcing them into the sink.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-301.12: “If EQUIPMENT or UTENSILS are too large for the WAREWASHING sink, a WAREWASHING machine or alternative EQUIPMENT as specified in ¶ (C) of this section shall be used.”
42. Which type of sanitizing solution is permitted for use in a two-compartment sink during batch operations?
Answer: A detergent-sanitizer applied according to manufacturer instructions. When using a two-compartment sink, workers must use a detergent-sanitizer following the manufacturer's specific label instructions.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-301.12: “Use a detergent-SANITIZER to SANITIZE and apply the detergentSANITIZER in accordance with the manufacturer’s label instructions and as specified under § 4-501.115”
43. What specific type of temperature measuring device is required for accurately measuring the temperature of thin foods like meat patties and fish filets?
Answer: A thermometer with a suitable small-diameter probe. The code specifically mandates a device with a small-diameter probe to ensure accurate readings in thin food items.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-302.12: “A TEMPERATURE MEASURING DEVICE with a suitable small-diameter probe that is designed to measure the temperature of thin masses shall be provided and readily accessible to accurately measure the temperature in thin FOODS such as MEAT patties and FISH filets.”
44. What is the primary requirement regarding the availability of food temperature measuring devices in a food establishment?
Answer: They must be provided and readily accessible for use. The regulation requires that these devices are not only provided but also readily accessible to ensure proper temperature control.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-302.12: “FOOD TEMPERATURE MEASURING DEVICES shall be provided and readily accessible for use in ensuring attainment and maintenance of FOOD temperatures as specified under Chapter 3.”
45. In a manual warewashing operation, what equipment must be provided and readily accessible to ensure proper sanitation?
Answer: A thermometer for measuring washing and sanitizing temperatures. The code requires a temperature measuring device to verify that water temperatures meet sanitation standards during manual washing.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-302.13: “In manual WAREWASHING operations, a TEMPERATURE MEASURING DEVICE shall be provided and readily accessible for frequently measuring the washing and SANITIZING temperatures.”
46. What specific type of indicator is required for hot water mechanical warewashing operations?
Answer: An irreversible registering temperature indicator. Mechanical hot water washers require an irreversible indicator to confirm that utensil surfaces reached the necessary temperature.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-302.13: “In hot water mechanical WAREWASHING operations, an irreversible registering temperature indicator shall be provided and readily accessible for measuring the UTENSIL surface temperature.”
47. When installing fixed equipment that is not easily movable, what is the maximum allowable gap between the equipment and the adjoining wall?
Answer: Not more than 1 millimeter or one thirty-second inch. The code specifies a very tight maximum gap of 1 mm to prevent debris accumulation while allowing cleaning access.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-402.11: “Spaced from adjoining EQUIPMENT, walls, and ceilings a distance of not more than 1 millimeter or one thirty-second inch;”
48. How must counter-mounted equipment that is not easily movable be installed to allow cleaning underneath?
Answer: It must be sealed or elevated on legs. Counter-mounted units must either be sealed to prevent debris buildup or raised on legs to allow cleaning underneath.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-402.11: “SEALED; or (2) Elevated on legs as specified under ¶ 4-402.12(D).”
49. Where is it acceptable to store a cabinet containing clean linens and single-use articles?
Answer: In a locker room. The code specifically permits storing linens and single-use items in locker rooms, whereas other areas like toilet rooms or under leaks are prohibited.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-401.11: “A storage cabinet used for LINENS or SINGLE-SERVICE or SINGLE-USE ARTICLES may be stored in a locker room.”
50. If a mechanical clothes washer is provided, where must it be located?
Answer: Where there is no exposed food, clean equipment, utensils, linens, or unwrapped single-service articles. The washer must be placed in an area where it does not contaminate exposed food or clean supplies, ensuring separation from these items.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-401.11: “If a mechanical clothes washer or dryer is provided, it shall be located so that the washer or dryer is protected from contamination and only where there is no exposed FOOD; clean EQUIPMENT, UTENSILS, and LINENS; and unwrapped SINGLESERVICE and SINGLE-USE ARTICLES.”
51. When must cleaning agents and sanitizers be available for use in a food establishment?
Answer: During all hours of operation. The code requires that necessary cleaning and sanitizing chemicals are accessible throughout the entire time the business is open, not just at specific intervals.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-303.11: “Cleaning agents that are used to clean EQUIPMENT and UTENSILS as specified under Part 4-6, shall be provided and available for use during all hours of operation.”
52. Which sanitizers are exempt from the requirement to be provided and available during all hours of operation?
Answer: Sanitizers generated on-site at the time of use. The regulation specifically excludes sanitizers that are created immediately before use on-site from the strict availability requirement applied to other chemical sanitizers.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-303.11: “Except for those that are generated on-site at the time of use, chemical SANITIZERS that are used to sanitize EQUIPMENT and UTENSILS as specified under Part 4-7, shall be provided and available for use during all hours of operation.”
53. How should equipment components such as doors, seals, hinges, fasteners, and kick plates be maintained?
Answer: Kept intact, tight, and adjusted in accordance with manufacturer's specifications. The code requires these parts to be tight and adjusted specifically according to the manufacturer's instructions, not just by general staff preference.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-501.11: “EQUIPMENT components such as doors, seals, hinges, fasteners, and kick plates shall be kept intact, tight, and adjusted in accordance with manufacturer's specifications.”
54. Why must cutting or piercing parts of can openers be kept sharp?
Answer: To minimize the creation of metal fragments that can contaminate FOOD. Sharp blades cut cleanly rather than tearing, which reduces the likelihood of metal shavings falling into the food.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-501.11: “Cutting or piercing parts of can openers shall be kept sharp to minimize the creation of metal fragments that can contaminate FOOD when the container is opened.”
55. What is the minimum required clearance between the floor and fixed, floor-mounted equipment that is not easily movable?
Answer: 15 centimeters (6 inches). The standard requirement for fixed floor-mounted equipment is a minimum clearance of 15 centimeters (6 inches) to allow for cleaning underneath.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-402.12: “floor-mounted EQUIPMENT that is not EASILY MOVABLE shall be SEALED to the floor or elevated on legs that provide at least a 15 centimeter (6 inch) clearance between the floor and the EQUIPMENT.”
56. Under what condition may the clearance space under floor-mounted equipment be reduced to 10 centimeters (4 inches)?
Answer: If no part of the floor under the equipment is more than 15 centimeters from the cleaning access point. A reduced clearance of 10 centimeters is permitted only when the entire area under the equipment is within easy reach for cleaning.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-402.12: “If no part of the floor under the floor-mounted EQUIPMENT is more than 15 centimeters (6 inches) from the point of cleaning access, the clearance space may be only 10 centimeters (4 inches).”
57. What is the minimum clearance required between the table surface and fixed counter-mounted equipment?
Answer: 10 centimeters (4 inches). Fixed counter-mounted equipment must be elevated to provide at least 10 centimeters of clearance from the table surface.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-402.12: “COUNTER-MOUNTED EQUIPMENT that is not EASILY MOVABLE shall be elevated on legs that provide at least a 10 centimeter (4 inch) clearance between the table and the EQUIPMENT.”
58. When can the clearance between counter-mounted equipment and the table be reduced to 5 centimeters (2 inches)?
Answer: If the horizontal distance of the table top under the equipment is no more than 7.5 centimeters from the cleaning access point. The clearance can be reduced to 5 centimeters only if the area under the equipment is very close to the edge of the table, ensuring easy cleaning access.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-402.12: “(2) 5 centimeters (2 inches) if the horizontal distance of the table top under the EQUIPMENT is no more than 7.5 centimeters (3 inches) from the point of access for cleaning.”
59. When preparing the wash compartment of a sink for warewashing, which factor primarily determines the specific cleaning agent to use?
Answer: The manufacturer's label instructions for the cleaning agent. The code specifies that the choice of cleaning agent must follow the instructions provided on the manufacturer's label.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-501.17: “shall contain a wash solution of soap, detergent, acid cleaner, alkaline cleaner, degreaser, abrasive cleaner, or other cleaning agent according to the cleaning agent manufacturer's label instructions.”
60. When must a warewashing machine be cleaned according to standard operating procedures?
Answer: Before use. The code requires cleaning the equipment before it is used to ensure it is ready for operation.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-501.14: “A WAREWASHING machine; the compartments of sinks, basins, or other receptacles used for washing and rinsing EQUIPMENT, UTENSILS, or raw FOODS, or laundering wiping cloths; and drainboards or other EQUIPMENT used to substitute for drainboards as specified under § 4-301.13 shall be cleaned: (A) Before use;”
61. How frequently must a warewashing machine be cleaned if it is in continuous use throughout the day?
Answer: At a frequency necessary to prevent recontamination and ensure proper function. Cleaning frequency depends on usage needs to prevent contamination and maintain functionality, rather than a fixed hourly schedule.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-501.14: “(B) Throughout the day at a frequency necessary to prevent recontamination of EQUIPMENT and UTENSILS and to ensure that the EQUIPMENT performs its intended function;”
62. What is the maximum time interval allowed between cleanings for a warewashing machine that is actively used?
Answer: Every 24 hours. The regulation sets a strict maximum interval of 24 hours for cleaning used equipment.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-501.14: “(C) If used, at least every 24 hours.”
63. A food worker needs to use the warewashing sink to thaw a package of frozen chicken breasts. What must be done to the sink immediately before placing the food in it?
Answer: The sink must be cleaned. The code requires the sink to be cleaned before using it to thaw food.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-501.16: “If a WAREWASHING sink is used to wash wiping cloths, wash produce, or thaw FOOD, the sink shall be cleaned as specified under § 4-501.14 before and after each time it is used to wash wiping cloths or wash produce or thaw FOOD.”
64. After thawing vegetables in the warewashing sink, what additional step is required before the sink can be used again for washing dishes?
Answer: The sink must be sanitized. The regulation specifies that sinks used for thawing food must be sanitized after use.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-501.16: “Sinks used to wash or thaw FOOD shall be SANITIZED as specified under Part 4-7 before and after using the sink to wash produce or thaw FOOD.”
65. A employee wants to wash their hands in the warewashing sink because the handwashing station is occupied. Is this permitted?
Answer: No, the sink may not be used for handwashing. Warewashing sinks are restricted from being used for handwashing.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-501.16: “A WAREWASHING sink may not be used for handwashing as specified under § 2-301.15.”
66. How should a food handler calibrate a food temperature measuring device?
Answer: By following the manufacturer's specifications. The code requires calibration to follow the specific instructions provided by the device manufacturer.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-502.11: “FOOD TEMPERATURE MEASURING DEVICES shall be calibrated in accordance with manufacturer's specifications as necessary to ensure their accuracy.”
67. What is the required condition for utensils used in food preparation?
Answer: They must be maintained in a state of repair or discarded. Utensils must either be in good repair meeting specific standards or be thrown away if they do not meet those standards.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-502.11: “UTENSILS shall be maintained in a state of repair or condition that complies with the requirements specified under Parts 4-1 and 4-2 or shall be discarded.”
68. What is the minimum required temperature for the wash solution in manual warewashing equipment?
Answer: 43°C (110°F). The code sets the minimum wash temperature for manual equipment at 43°C (110°F).
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-501.19: “The temperature of the wash solution in manual WAREWASHING EQUIPMENT shall be maintained at not less than 43oC (110oF) or the temperature specified on the cleaning agent manufacturer's label instructions.”
69. If a food handler uses hot water immersion to sanitize items manually, what minimum temperature must the water be maintained at?
Answer: 77°C (171°F). Hot water sanitizing requires a higher temperature of at least 77°C (171°F) to be effective.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-501.19: “If immersion in hot water is used for SANITIZING in a manual operation, the temperature of the water shall be maintained at 77oC (171oF) or above.”
70. What is the minimum temperature required for a quaternary ammonium compound sanitizing solution?
Answer: 24°C (75°F). Quaternary ammonium compounds require a minimum temperature of 24°C (75°F) to function properly.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-501.19: “A quaternary ammonium compound solution shall: (1) Have a minimum temperature of 24oC (75oF)”
71. What is the minimum frequency required for cleaning the food-contact surfaces of cooking and baking equipment?
Answer: Every 24 hours. The regulation mandates that these surfaces must be cleaned at least once every 24 hours.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-602.12: “The FOOD-CONTACT SURFACES of cooking and baking EQUIPMENT shall be cleaned at least every 24 hours.”
72. How often must the cavities and door seals of microwave ovens be cleaned?
Answer: At least every 24 hours. Microwave cavities and seals require cleaning at least every 24 hours to maintain hygiene standards.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-602.12: “The cavities and door seals of microwave ovens shall be cleaned at least every 24 hours by using the manufacturer's recommended cleaning procedure.”
73. Which cleaning method is specified for microwave oven cavities and door seals?
Answer: Using the manufacturer's recommended cleaning procedure. The code specifies following the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning these specific parts.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-602.12: “The cavities and door seals of microwave ovens shall be cleaned at least every 24 hours by using the manufacturer's recommended cleaning procedure.”
74. How should food-contact surfaces of cooking equipment and pans be maintained?
Answer: They should be kept free of encrusted grease deposits and other soil accumulations. The code requires cooking equipment surfaces to be free of grease and soil buildup to ensure cleanliness.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-601.11: “The FOOD-CONTACT SURFACES of cooking EQUIPMENT and pans shall be kept free of encrusted grease deposits and other soil accumulations.”
75. What is the required standard for the cleanliness of equipment food-contact surfaces and utensils?
Answer: They must be clean to sight and touch. The regulation specifies that these surfaces must meet the standard of being clean both visually and by tactile inspection.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-601.11: “EQUIPMENT FOOD-CONTACT SURFACES and UTENSILS shall be clean to sight and touch.”
76. Which debris must be kept away from the non-food-contact surfaces of equipment?
Answer: Dust, dirt, food residue, and other debris. The code lists specific items including dust, dirt, food residue, and debris that must not accumulate on non-food-contact areas.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-601.11: “NonFOOD-CONTACT SURFACES of EQUIPMENT shall be kept free of an accumulation of dust, dirt, FOOD residue, and other debris.”
77. When must equipment food-contact surfaces and utensils be cleaned when switching between different types of raw animal foods?
Answer: Before each use with a different type of raw animal food. The code requires cleaning before switching between different types of raw animal foods to prevent cross-contamination.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-602.11: “Equipment food-contact surfaces and utensils shall be cleaned: (1) Except as specified in ¶ (B) of this section, before each use with a different type of raw animal FOOD such as beef, FISH, lamb, pork, or POULTRY;”
78. What is the standard cleaning frequency for equipment food-contact surfaces used with Time/Temperature Control for Safety (TCS) foods?
Answer: Every 4 hours. Unless specific exceptions apply, TCS food-contact surfaces must be cleaned at least every four hours.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-602.11: “Except as specified in ¶ (D) of this section, if used with TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOOD, EQUIPMENT FOOD-CONTACT SURFACES and UTENSILS shall be cleaned throughout the day at least every 4 hours.”
79. If utensils are stored in water at 57°C (135°F) or higher, how often must they be cleaned?
Answer: Every 24 hours. Utensils kept in hot water (135°F+) require cleaning at least every 24 hours.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-602.11: “In-use utensils are intermittently stored in a container of water in which the water is maintained at 57oC (135oF) or more and the utensils and container are cleaned at least every 24 hours or at a frequency necessary to preclude accumulation of soil residues.”
80. How often must surfaces of utensils contacting non-TCS foods, such as those on a salad bar, be cleaned?
Answer: Every 24 hours. Non-TCS food-contact surfaces like self-service utensils must be cleaned at least every 24 hours.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-602.11: “At least every 24 hours for iced tea dispensers and CONSUMER selfservice UTENSILS such as tongs, scoops, or ladles;”
81. When using alternative manual warewashing equipment because standard sinks or machines are impractical, what is the required first step regarding the equipment itself?
Answer: Disassemble the equipment as necessary to allow detergent access to all parts. The code requires disassembling equipment to ensure cleaning agents reach all surfaces.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-603.15: “EQUIPMENT shall be disassembled as necessary to allow access of the detergent solution to all parts;”
82. Before washing utensils in alternative manual warewashing equipment, what action must be taken to remove food particle accumulation?
Answer: Scrape or rough clean the components and utensils. The procedure mandates scraping or rough cleaning to remove food particles prior to the washing step.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-603.15: “EQUIPMENT components and UTENSILS shall be scraped or rough cleaned to remove FOOD particle accumulation;”
83. When selecting a washing procedure for equipment food-contact surfaces, what factors must primarily determine the choice of method?
Answer: The type and purpose of the equipment or utensil, and the type of soil to be removed. The code states that the choice of washing procedure depends on the equipment's purpose and the specific soil present.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-603.14: “The washing procedures selected shall be based on the type and purpose of the EQUIPMENT or UTENSIL, and on the type of soil to be removed.”
84. Which of the following is an acceptable method for effectively washing equipment food-contact surfaces to remove soils?
Answer: Using detergents containing wetting agents and emulsifiers. The section lists detergents with wetting agents and emulsifiers as a specific, approved means for effectively washing surfaces.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-603.14: “EQUIPMENT FOOD-CONTACT SURFACES and UTENSILS shall be effectively washed to remove or completely loosen soils by using the manual or mechanical means necessary such as the application of detergents containing wetting agents and emulsifiers”
85. When washing utensils in a standard three-compartment sink, what is the correct procedure for rinsing?
Answer: Use a distinct, separate water rinse after washing and before sanitizing. The code specifies that a separate water rinse is required between the wash and sanitize steps when using a three-compartment sink.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-603.16: “Use of a distinct, separate water rinse after washing and before SANITIZING if using: (1) A 3-compartment sink”
86. How should rinsing be handled when using a warewashing machine that recycles the sanitizing solution?
Answer: Use a nondistinct water rinse that is integrated in the application of the sanitizing solution. For machines that recycle sanitizing solution, the rinse water is mixed into the sanitizing application rather than being a separate step.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-603.16: “If using a WAREWASHING machine that recycles the SANITIZING solution for use in the next wash cycle, use of a nondistinct water rinse that is integrated in the application of the SANITIZING solution.”
87. When sanitizing utensils using hot water in a mechanical dishwasher, what surface temperature must be achieved?
Answer: 71°C (160°F). The code specifies that mechanical hot water sanitizing requires the utensil surface to reach 71°C (160°F).
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-703.11: “achieving a UTENSIL surface temperature of 71oC (160oF) as measured by an irreversible registering temperature indicator”
88. What is the minimum contact time required for sanitizing equipment with a standard chlorine solution?
Answer: 10 seconds. Standard chlorine solutions require a minimum contact time of 10 seconds to effectively sanitize surfaces.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-703.11: “Except as specified under Subparagraph (C)(2) of this section, a contact time of at least 10 seconds for a chlorine solution specified under ¶ 4-501.114(A)”
89. How long must equipment be immersed in hot water to sanitize it during manual operations?
Answer: At least 30 seconds. Manual hot water sanitizing requires items to be immersed for a minimum of 30 seconds.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-703.11: “Hot water manual operations by immersion for at least 30 seconds and as specified under § 4-501.111”
90. What is the minimum contact time for other chemical sanitizing solutions that are not chlorine-based?
Answer: At least 30 seconds. Non-chlorine chemical sanitizers generally require a longer contact time of at least 30 seconds compared to standard chlorine solutions.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-703.11: “A contact time of at least 30 seconds for other chemical SANITIZING solutions”
91. When must cloth gloves used for handling different types of raw animal foods be laundered?
Answer: Before being used with a different type of raw animal food such as beef, fish, lamb, pork, or poultry. Cloth gloves must be washed before switching between different categories of raw animal products to prevent cross-contamination.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-802.11: “Cloth gloves used as specified in ¶ 3-304.15(D) shall be laundered before being used with a different type of raw animal FOOD such as beef, FISH, lamb, pork or POULTRY.”
92. How often must wet wiping cloths be laundered?
Answer: Daily. The code requires wet wiping cloths to be washed every day.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-802.11: “Wet wiping cloths shall be laundered daily.”
93. What is the laundering requirement for linens that do not come in direct contact with food?
Answer: They shall be laundered between operations if they become wet, sticky, or visibly soiled. Linens not touching food directly require washing between operations only if they are wet, sticky, or visibly dirty.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-802.11: “LINENS that do not come in direct contact with FOOD shall be laundered between operations if they become wet, sticky, or visibly soiled.”
94. In a food establishment that launders only wiping cloths, which of the following is an acceptable location for laundering these cloths?
Answer: A mechanical washer, a sink designated only for laundering wiping cloths, or a cleaned warewashing or food preparation sink. The code lists mechanical washers, designated sinks, and cleaned warewashing or food prep sinks as acceptable locations for laundering wiping cloths in this specific scenario.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-803.12: “In FOOD ESTABLISHMENTS in which only wiping cloths are laundered as specified in ¶ 4-301.15(B), the wiping cloths may be laundered in a mechanical washer, sink designated only for laundering wiping cloths, or a WAREWASHING or FOOD preparation sink that is cleaned as specified under § 4-501.14.”
95. After cleaning and sanitizing equipment, what is the required method for drying it before it contacts food?
Answer: Air-dry or allow adequate draining. The code mandates that equipment must be air-dried or drained adequately, rather than wiped with cloths, to ensure hygiene.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-901.11: “Shall be air-dried or used after adequate draining as specified in the first paragraph of 40 CFR 180.940 Tolerance exemptions for active and inert ingredients for use in antimicrobial formulations (food-contact surface SANITIZING solutions), before contact with FOOD;”
96. Which practice is permitted when finishing the drying process for utensils?
Answer: Polishing utensils that have already been air-dried with clean, dry cloths. Cloth drying is generally prohibited, but polishing already air-dried utensils with clean, dry cloths is the specific exception allowed.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-901.11: “May not be cloth dried except that UTENSILS that have been air-dried may be polished with cloths that are maintained clean and dry.”
97. In a food establishment without a mechanical clothes dryer, where must wiping cloths be air-dried after laundering?
Answer: In a location and manner that prevents contamination of food, equipment, utensils, linens, and single-service articles. The code requires that the drying location and method specifically prevent contamination of food and related items.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-901.12: “Wiping cloths laundered in a FOOD ESTABLISHMENT that does not have a mechanical clothes dryer as specified in ¶ 4-301.15(B) shall be air-dried in a location and in a manner that prevents contamination of FOOD, EQUIPMENT, UTENSILS, LINENS, and SINGLE-SERVICE and SINGLE-USE ARTICLES and the wiping cloths.”
98. When is the requirement for specific air-drying locations for wiping cloths not applicable?
Answer: When the wiping cloths are stored after laundering in a sanitizing solution. The rule regarding air-drying locations is waived if the cloths are stored in a sanitizing solution instead.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-901.12: “This section does not apply if wiping cloths are stored after laundering in a SANITIZING solution as specified under § 4-501.114.”
99. A food handler is washing a personal towel in the laundry facility located within the food establishment. According to standard operational guidelines for on-premises laundry, what is the appropriate use of this facility?
Answer: It should be used only for washing and drying items used in the operation of the establishment. The code restricts on-premises laundry facilities to operational items, excluding personal items like towels unless specific exceptions apply.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-803.13: “laundry facilities on the PREMISES of a FOOD ESTABLISHMENT shall be used only for the washing and drying of items used in the operation of the establishment.”
100. In a facility that provides boarding and lodging, how may the separate laundry facilities be utilized?
Answer: They may be used for laundering both general items and FOOD ESTABLISHMENT items. Institutions with boarding and lodging are permitted to use separate laundry facilities for both general and food establishment items.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-803.13: “Separate laundry facilities located on the PREMISES for the purpose of general laundering such as for institutions providing boarding and lodging may also be used for laundering FOOD ESTABLISHMENT items.”
101. Under what condition may laundered linens and packaged single-service articles be stored in a locker room?
Answer: When they are PACKAGED or in a facility such as a cabinet. The exception allows storage in locker rooms only if the items are packaged or contained within a facility like a cabinet.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-903.12: “Laundered LINENS and SINGLE-SERVICE and SINGLE-USE ARTICLES that are PACKAGED or in a facility such as a cabinet may be stored in a locker room.”
102. Which location is prohibited for storing cleaned equipment and utensils due to potential drips?
Answer: Under leaking water lines. Storage is prohibited under leaking water lines because they pose a risk of contamination from drips or condensation.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-903.12: “Under leaking water lines including leaking automatic fire sprinkler heads or under lines on which water has condensed;”
103. What is the minimum height requirement for storing cleaned equipment and utensils above the floor?
Answer: At least 15 cm (6 inches). The code mandates that these items be stored at least 15 cm (6 inches) off the floor to prevent contamination.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-903.11: “Except as specified in ¶ (D) of this section, cleaned EQUIPMENT and UTENSILS, laundered LINENS, and SINGLE-SERVICE and SINGLE-USE ARTICLES shall be stored: (1) In a clean, dry location; (2) Where they are not exposed to splash, dust, or other contamination; and (3) At least 15 cm (6 inches) above the floor.”
104. How should clean equipment and utensils be positioned during storage to ensure proper drying?
Answer: In a self-draining position that allows air drying. Storing items in a self-draining position allows moisture to escape, preventing bacterial growth that can occur in trapped water.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-903.11: “Clean EQUIPMENT and UTENSILS shall be stored as specified under ¶ (A) of this section and shall be stored: (1) In a self-draining position that allows air drying; and (2) Covered or inverted.”
105. Which exception allows items to be stored less than 15 cm above the floor?
Answer: Items that are kept in closed PACKAGES on designed dollies, pallets, racks, and skids. Closed packaging provides sufficient protection from floor splash and dust, allowing for lower storage heights on approved supports.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-903.11: “Items that are kept in closed PACKAGES may be stored less than 15 cm (6 inches) above the floor on dollies, pallets, racks, and skids that are designed as specified under § 4-204.122.”
106. How should single-service and single-use articles be stored to maintain their cleanliness?
Answer: Kept in the original protective PACKAGE or protected by other means. Keeping these items in their original packaging or equivalent protective covering ensures they remain uncontaminated until the moment of use.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-903.11: “SINGLE-SERVICE and SINGLE-USE ARTICLES shall be stored as specified under ¶ (A) of this section and shall be kept in the original protective PACKAGE or stored by using other means that afford protection from contamination until used.”
107. Under what specific condition is it permissible to rinse equipment and utensils after they have been cleaned and sanitized?
Answer: When the rinse is applied directly from a potable water supply by a properly maintained warewashing machine. Rinsing is generally prohibited after sanitizing unless it occurs within a compliant warewashing machine using potable water.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-904.14: “The rinse is applied directly from a potable water supply by a warewashing machine that is maintained and operated as specified under Subparts 4-204 and 4-501”
108. Which type of water supply is required for rinsing equipment in a warewashing machine after sanitizing?
Answer: Potable water supplied directly from an approved source. The code specifies that the rinse water must be potable and applied directly from the supply within the machine.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-904.14: “The rinse is applied directly from a potable water supply by a warewashing machine”
109. When providing knives, forks, and spoons for consumer self-service, how should employees handle these utensils if they are not prewrapped?
Answer: Touch only the handles of the utensils. Employees must touch only the handles to keep the food-contact surfaces clean and uncontaminated.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-904.11: “Knives, forks, and spoons that are not prewrapped shall be presented so that only the handles are touched by EMPLOYEES and by CONSUMERS if CONSUMER selfservice is provided.”
110. How should single-service articles intended for food or lip contact be provided for consumer self-service if they are not in their original individual wrapper?
Answer: From an approved dispenser. If the original wrapper is not intact, the items must come from an approved dispenser to maintain hygiene.
FDA Food Code 2022, § 4-904.11: “Except as specified under ¶ (B) of this section, SINGLE-SERVICE ARTICLES that are intended for FOOD- or lip-contact shall be furnished for CONSUMER self-service with the original individual wrapper intact or from an APPROVED dispenser.”