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Disinfecting Your Commercial Kitchen
Most businesses are familiar with cleaning products and utilize specialized cleaners for ovens, silverware, and linens. However, COVID-19 has placed emphasis on products not specifically found in every cleaner: namely, sanitizers and disinfectants. Bell Chem, your sanitation ingredient supplier, wants to share this important information with you so you can ensure your business – large or small – operates with the ultimate level of disinfection.
It is first vitally important to recognize the distinct difference between a sanitizer and a disinfectant. Many people use these terms interchangeably, but they are significantly different, especially in the wake of COVID-19. Take a look at any sanitizer’s label and you will note it claims to “reduce the number of germs/pathogens/bacteria.” The claims will vary depending on the product’s use. A disinfectant is a whole new level of health safety because it actually kills bacteria/pathogens/germs when used properly. Although the cost is greater for a disinfectant, the level of safety is vitally important.
When considering disinfectants, you will find three disinfectant classifications containing seven total categories.
General disinfectant: This nonspecific disinfectant is great for all surfaces and does not target a specific pathogen. Most businesses and industries rely on general disinfectants.
Chlorine compounds remove all traces of body fluids, and are ideal for bathrooms, kitchens, or dining areas.
Alcohols dry rapidly and are often used on electronic equipment, such as touch screens or keyboards.
Phenolic compounds often destroy more than pathogens, as they mar surfaces and equipment upon application. They are excellent at controlling mycobacterium tuberculosis, viruses, and fungi when used properly.
Hydrogen peroxide is often paired with peracetic acid, which is an effective disinfectant, but highly reactive.
Limited disinfectant: Some industries find their disinfecting needs focus solely on one group of microorganisms.
Aldehydes are often used to stop the spread of bacteria that cause tuberculosis.
Hospital-grade disinfectant: Healthcare-acquired bacterial pathogens require a disinfectant to keep patients, healthcare workers, and staff as healthy as possible.
Quaternary ammonium compounds are highly effective and can be combined with detergents to clean and disinfect simultaneously.
Chlorine compounds such as Bell Chem’s sodium hypochlorite 10-12%, are broad-spectrum disinfectants that remove dried microorganisms and biofilms from surfaces.
Iodophors are not commonly used any longer because they stain, but they are highly effective.
Always ensure the disinfectant you choose is the correct product for the task. Disinfectant labels will give information on the pathogens they target, known as the “kill claim,” as well as proper usage and disposal. Also remember that disinfectants work best on a clean surface. Therefore, areas should be cleaned before disinfecting begins.
Bell Chem is a sanitation ingredient supplier based in Longwood, FL (just north of Orlando) with hundreds of products stocked in their 50,000+ square-foot warehouse, including CSANTM sanitation products. You can expect the highest quality products, expedited shipping options for maximum efficiency, and unrivaled personalized customer service. Let our knowledgeable and friendly customer service representatives and accounting staff personalize all your needs by either calling 407-339-BELL (2355) or by sending us an online message.