SECTION 7 - FOOD HOLDING AND SANITATION

FOOD HOLDING AND SANITATION

Food flavor and aroma are usually so closely related that it is difficult, if not impossible, to separate them. There is also an important, inseparable relationship between cleanliness and food flavor. Cleanliness, top operating efficiency, and appearance of equipment contribute considerably to savory, appetizing foods.

Good equipment that is kept clean, works better and lasts longer.

Most food imparts its own particular aroma and many foods also absorb existing odors. Unfortunately, during this absorption there is no distinction between GOOD and BAD odors. The majority of objectionable flavors and odors troubling food service operations are caused by bacteria growth. Sourness, rancidity, mustiness, stale or other OFF flavors are usually the result of germ activity.

The easiest way to insure full, natural food flavor is through comprehensive cleanliness. This means good control of both visible soil (dirt) and invisible soil (germs). A thorough approach to sanitation will provide essential cleanliness. It will assure an attractive appearance of equipment, along with maximum efficiency and utility. More importantly, a good sanitation program provides one of the key elements in the prevention of food-borne illnesses.

A controlled holding environment for prepared foods is just one of the important factors involved in the prevention of food-borne illnesses. Temperature monitoring and control during receiving, storage, preparation, and the service of foods are of equal importance.

The most accurate method of measuring safe temperatures of both hot and cold foods is by internal product temperature. A quality thermometer is an effective tool for this purpose, and should be routinely used on all products that require holding at a specific temperature.

A comprehensive sanitation program should focus on the training of staff in basic sanitation procedures. This includes personal hygiene, proper handling of raw foods, cooking to a safe internal product temperature, and the routine monitoring of internal temperatures from receiving through service.

Most food-borne illnesses can be prevented

through proper temperature control and a comprehensive program of sanitation. Both these factors are important to build quality service as the foundation of customer satisfaction. Safe food handling practices to prevent food-borne illness is of critical importance to the health and safety of your customers.

HACCP, an acronym for Hazard Analysis (at) Critical Control Points, is a quality control program of operating procedures to assure food integrity, quality, and safety. Taking steps necessary to augment food safety practices is both cost effective and relatively simple. While HACCP guidelines go far beyond the scope of this manual, additional information is available by contacting:

CENTER FOR FOOD SAFETY AND APPLIED

NUTRITION FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION

1-888-SAFEFOOD

INTERNAL FOOD PRODUCT TEMPERATURES

H OT FOOD S

DANGER ZONE

40° TO 140°F

(4° TO 60°C)

CRITICAL ZONE

70° TO 120°F

(21° TO 49°C)

SAFE ZONE

140° TO 165°F

(60° TO 74°C)

 

COLD FOOD S

 

DANGER ZONE

ABOVE 40°F

(ABOVE 4°C)

SAFE ZONE

36° TO 40°F

(2° TO 4°C)

 

FROZEN FOOD S

 

DANGER ZONE

ABOVE 32°F

(ABOVE 0°C)

CRITICAL ZONE

0° TO 32°F

(-18° TO 0°C)

SAFE ZONE

0°F or below

(-18°C or below)

cooking guidelines - simple control • 43

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Alto-Shaam MN-29491 manual Most food-borne illnesses can be prevented
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MN-29491 specifications

The Alto-Shaam MN-29491 is a highly regarded piece of equipment in the foodservice industry, renowned for its versatility, efficiency, and quality in cooking a wide range of dishes. This innovative cooking solution is designed to meet the demands of commercial kitchens, particularly in restaurants, catering services, and institutional food preparation settings.

One of the standout features of the Alto-Shaam MN-29491 is its Multi-Cook Oven technology. This unique feature allows operators to simultaneously cook different types of food items at varying temperatures and cooking modes without the risk of flavor transfer. This is particularly beneficial for establishments that serve diverse menus and require precise cooking.

The oven is equipped with an advanced control system that includes digital controls for precise temperature management and cooking time settings. With programmable recipes, chefs can automate cooking processes, ensuring consistency and quality across all dishes prepared. This not only enhances productivity but also helps in minimizing food waste by ensuring that food is cooked to perfection.

In terms of construction, the MN-29491 boasts a robust stainless steel exterior that enhances durability and ease of cleaning. Its compact design allows it to fit seamlessly into kitchen layouts without occupying excessive floor space, making it an ideal choice for busy kitchens where space is at a premium.

The oven utilizes Alto-Shaam's innovative Cook & Hold technology, which allows for slow cooking and holding of food at safe temperatures for extended periods. This method not only improves the flavors and tenderness of meats and other dishes but also reduces the risk of overcooking, providing a reliable solution for busy service times.

Energy efficiency is another hallmark of the Alto-Shaam MN-29491. It is designed to consume less energy than conventional cooking equipment, contributing to cost savings in utility bills and promoting a more sustainable kitchen environment.

Overall, the Alto-Shaam MN-29491 stands out as a leader in commercial cooking solutions, blending cutting-edge technology with user-friendly features. Its robust performance, innovative cooking methods, and energy-efficient design make it a valuable asset for any foodservice operation, ensuring that chefs can deliver exceptional quality dishes while maintaining operational efficiency.
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