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Cleaning

cleanCleaning tips

Hands

  • It’s important to always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before preparing food.

  • Hand sanitisers will not remove allergens – the allergens need to be washed off the hands with soap and water or wiped thoroughly using hand wipes if water is not available.

Equipment

  • Use hot soapy water to clean the kitchen benchtop and any other food preparation surfaces.

  • Use hot soapy water when cleaning food preparation equipment, such as bowls, pots and pans and utensils to prevent cross-contamination.

  • Some equipment (e.g. toasters) can be difficult to clean and you may want to consider having a separate one for those family members with food allergies. Always check equipment has no food residue and is thoroughly clean before using.

  • Clean trays with hot soapy water.  Baking paper or aluminium foil can also be used if required.  Note that oils can seep through wax paper or other liners and cause cross contamination.

  • Wash dish cloths and tea towels regularly.

Food preparation - Cross contamination

This short practical video is one of seven that have been developed to help you to choose, store and prepare foods if you or a family member or friend has a food allergy.

Content updated October 2021