Prep Cook how-to

How to Clean and Sanitize a Prep Table

Clean surfaces prevent foodborne illness.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Clean surfaces prevent foodborne illness. In short: remove; wash; rinse, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Remove food and debris.

  2. Wash with soapy water.

  3. Rinse.

  4. Apply sanitizer at the correct concentration.

  5. Let air dry.

  6. Check sanitizer strength with test strips.

Safety reminders for prep cooks

  • Use cut-resistant gloves with slicers
  • Keep knives sharp and stored safely
  • Lift with your legs
  • Keep raw and ready-to-eat foods separate

Prep list · Dice · Julienne · Brunoise · Chiffonade · Portion: see the full prep cook glossary.

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