What is the most reliable method for sanitizing kitchen surfaces?

The most reliable method for sanitizing kitchen surfaces is the use of a hot water wash above 170 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is effective in killing a wide range of pathogens, including bacteria and viruses, which can cause foodborne illnesses. The high temperature helps to denature proteins in microorganisms, effectively rendering them inactive.

While soap and water is essential for cleaning, it may not provide the same level of sanitation as hot water alone. Soap helps remove food residues and dirt but doesn’t kill germs effectively. Alcohol wipes can be useful for disinfecting small surfaces but may not be as effective against all types of pathogens, particularly if the surface is heavily soiled. Chlorine solutions are indeed effective at sanitizing surfaces, but they require proper dilution and contact time to work effectively, making hot water a more straightforward option when immediate sanitation is needed.