WHITE PAPER • improve and control the hygiene of the environment, especially in high-risk processing zones. Conventionally, wet cleaning (or the use of water and detergents, and sanitation chemicals) is used in the industry as it is a much easier, faster, and more effective technique for decontaminating surfaces. However, wet sanitation, in addition to being a potentially wasteful use of water and chemicals, can allow pathogens and other microorganisms to multiply, increase the risk of cross-contamination, and potentially create a serious food safety issue in a facility. In contrast, dry sanitation uses minimal or no water and chemicals and consequently, although possibly requiring greater time and effort, avoids many of the issues listed above. Therefore, facilities should carefully evaluate whether to employ wet or dry sanitation practices in order to minimise food safety risk. 3. Less risk of product dilution or adulteration with water and sanitation chemicals. 4. Less risk of standing water. 5. Reduced use and cost of chemicals and water, compared with wet cleaning, e.g., comparison using TACTWINS (3) (see Table 1). 6. Reduced risk of antimicrobial resistant strain development. 7. Enhanced workplace safety, e.g., less risk of electrocution, chemical exposure, and slips. Note: With the world population projected to increase to 9 billion by 2050, and fears of the impending adverse changes to our climate, water resources globally are going to be put under increasing pressure. Consequently, the cost of water, both from a financial and environmental perspective, will increase and efforts to reduce water use whilst maintaining food safety will present a significant challenge to the food industry. Wider implementation of dry sanitation methods and processes could be of significant benefit. BENEFITS OF DRY SANITATION 1. Using little-to-no water reduces the risk of microbial growth and spread. 2. Less risk of equipment damage due to water/ chemical accumulation. ELEMENT Wet Sanitation Dry Sanitation T Time A Action C Chemical conc. T Temp. W Water I Individual N Nature of Soil S Surface Required Required Required Required Required Don’t need Required Don’t need Required Don’t need Required Required Required Required Required Required Table 1: Benefits of Dry Sanitation over Wet Sanitation - up to 40% Cost Savings. Vikan A/S - Department of Hygiene Copyright © 2023 Vikan A/S · All Rights Reserved 02
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