What should non-food contact surfaces always be kept free of?

Non-food contact surfaces should always be kept free of dirt, dust, and other particles to maintain a clean and sanitary environment. This is crucial because such surfaces can harbor bacteria, allergens, and other contaminants that can transfer to food contact surfaces or even to food itself, posing a risk to food safety and public health.

By ensuring that non-food contact surfaces remain clean and free of particulates, food establishments can minimize the risk of cross-contamination and maintain adherence to health regulations. This practice also contributes to an overall safe and hygienic food preparation environment, preventing the accumulation of debris that could attract pests or lead to the growth of harmful microorganisms.

Other contaminating factors like moisture, food scraps, and insects are also important to manage, but the presence of dirt and dust presents a more direct concern for general cleanliness and the potential for contamination.