Certified Professional Food Safety (CP-FS) Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT an acceptable sanitizer?

1. QUATS

2. Chlorine

3. Bleach

4. Iodine

The correct answer is: Bleach

The choice identified as the correct answer highlights a misunderstanding in the context of acceptable sanitizers in food safety practices. Chlorine and bleach, while often used interchangeably in everyday language, reference similar chemical compounds and both serve as effective sanitizing agents in food service settings. Chlorine is a common sanitizer that can be used in various concentrations for effective sanitation, particularly in food contact surfaces. Bleach, which is a diluted form of sodium hypochlorite, is often used in food service for disinfection of surfaces, utensils, and equipment. It is crucial to ensure that the bleach is at a safe dilution level suitable for food contact surfaces and that surfaces are rinsed properly to prevent chemical residues. QUATS (quaternary ammonium compounds) and iodine are also recognized as effective sanitizing agents in food establishments. They can be utilized in various applications, such as sanitizing food contact surfaces and utensils, depending on the specific requirements and guidelines for concentrations and contact times. Overall, the primary focus in food safety is to utilize methods and products that are proven effective against pathogens while ensuring food safety protocols are maintained. Therefore, all the alternatives listed, except the one designated in the question, would typically be considered acceptable sanitizers in the food industry when used