If you see a dark mark on a container, do not reload it; mould is the result and moisture staying in one spot is the cause. Marks usually show where water collects and air does not move: inside the seal channel, the shaded side of the lid hinge, around the drain hole, and where the shelf supports meet the container wall. Record the location, size and surface type against the container number, and photograph it.
Cleaning sequence:
- Remove the mark mechanically with a brush.
- Wash with a cleaning agent suited to the surface and the equipment instructions.
- Rinse thoroughly.
- Check that no soil remains, disinfect if required, dry fully and do not close the container until it is dry.
The Food Hygiene Regulation requires vehicles and containers used to carry food to be kept clean, well maintained and in good condition (Article 13), and food-contact equipment to be cleaned effectively and disinfected where necessary (Article 14). After cleaning, inspect the same points in good light. If a mark remains, the material is cracked or blistered, or the stain returns, hold the container in quarantine and show it to the quality owner; surface cleaning does not remove mould that has gone into the seal, and replacement comes into question.
To track recurrence, keep container number, location, wash date and inspection result on one record line; it shows whether the problem belongs to one container or to the wash area. Make drying a step of the wash routine and store containers with the lid ajar.
