Food Safety Certification Practice Test

Which is the correct order of steps in a manual dishwashing operation after pre-scraping?

1. Scrub, rinse, sanitize, air dry

2. Wash, rinse, sanitize, air dry

3. Wash, scrub, air dry, rinse

4. Rinse, wash, sanitize, air dry

The correct answer is: Wash, rinse, sanitize, air dry

The correct order of steps in a manual dishwashing operation after pre-scraping is to wash, rinse, sanitize, and then air dry. This sequence is essential for effective cleaning and sanitizing dishes and kitchenware. The washing step involves using hot, soapy water to remove food particles, grease, and bacteria from the surface of the items. It is crucial to ensure that all residues are thoroughly dislodged during this phase. Rinsing follows washing and serves to remove any soap residue along with any remaining food particles. Rinsing is done with clean water, which is vital to prepare the items for sanitization. After rinsing, the sanitization step is crucial for eliminating any remaining pathogens on the surface of the dishes. This is typically done with a sanitizer solution that must be applied according to the manufacturer's instructions for effective microbial reduction. Finally, air drying allows dishes to dry completely without the risk of contamination that can occur with cloth towels or other drying methods. Air drying is a crucial step in preventing the reintroduction of bacteria to the clean items. This methodical process ensures that all potential contaminants are effectively removed or destroyed, thus upholding food safety standards in food preparation areas.