Tips for a Mold-free Restaurant

8/24/2022 (Permalink)

Use plastic wrap or containers to cover any food that is out for prep or serving.

Mold Risk In a Restaurant

Mold spores are abundant in our environment, but problems develop when they get inside your building and find damp places to grow and reproduce. Sometimes you smell mold before you see it, as the release of mycotoxins from the digestive process is what makes that familiar musty smell. The constant cooking and washing in a restaurant increase the opportunity for mold growth, but you can take steps to reduce your risk through inspection, maintenance, and cleanliness. Really, there are two main categories to manage for mold risk in your restaurant: food and building.

Protect Food

Since mold spores are all around the environment, it's important to take additional precautions to protect food from mold growth. Here are a few things you can do to keep the food safe in your restaurant in Temple, TX.

1. Buy quality food and check it for signs of mold
2. Use plastic wrap to cover any food that is out for prep or serving
3. Refrigerate unused foods quickly into clean containers and cover tightly
4. Mold can grow in the refrigerator so use leftovers in 3-4 days before mold has a chance to grow

Maintain the Building

A restaurant presents additional moisture problems because of the kitchen environment. The kitchen space is packed tight with equipment and ventilation is often challenging resulting in high humidity. It's important to check frequently for problems and maintain equipment. Here are some places to pay attention to and to keep clean.

1. Use ventilation systems as well as heating and air conditioning systems to keep humidity levels under 40%
2. Maintain ventilation hoods and ductwork for cleanliness and proper function
3. Keep all rags and sponges clean and dry, if anything smells musty throw it out
4. Regularly clean the refrigerator, including rubber casings, with a baking soda solution (1 tablespoon per quart of water)
5. Check for leaks and water damage around the plumbing

When you do have mold growth, you can count on professional remediation specialists who clean up mold using special equipment and methods that contain the area and prevent the further spread of spores in your restaurant.