What is the purpose of using sanitizers in food preparation?

The key purpose of using sanitizers in food preparation is to reduce the number of germs to safe levels. This process is crucial for preventing foodborne illnesses and ensuring that food products are safe for consumption. Sanitizers work by killing or inactivating pathogens that can lead to health risks, thus making food handling practices safer in commercial and home kitchens alike.

Proper sanitization is a critical component of food safety protocols as it addresses contamination by harmful bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms that can be present on food contact surfaces. This step is essential in maintaining hygiene and preventing the spread of disease, especially when preparing and serving food to others.