A meat slicer is a fantastic tool, giving you perfectly uniform slices for smoked bologna sandwiches and other deli meats. But the most important step comes after the slicing is done. The single most important thing after using a meat slicer you should do is clean it properly.
Properly cleaning a meat slicer is not just about keeping your equipment in good shape; it’s a critical step for preventing cross-contamination and foodborne illness. This simple guide will walk you through the correct process.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning a Meat Slicer
Follow these steps after every use to ensure your slicer is sanitary and safe.
Step 1: Safety First & Initial Wipe
- Unplug the Slicer: Never begin cleaning while the slicer is plugged in.
- Set Blade to Zero: Turn the thickness dial to zero so the blade is flush with the guard.
- Initial Wipe: Use a clean cloth or scrub pad to remove foods and large particles from the machine.
Step 2: Disassemble the Slicer
Carefully remove the washable parts of the slicer. An easy to clean meat slicer will have parts that come off without tools. On most models, this includes:
- The Product Tray
- The Blade Guard
- The Blade (Consult your manual, as some are not meant to be easily removed)
Step 3: Wash, Rinse, and Sanitize
This is the core of the process. The best method is to wash, rinse, and sanitize in a three-sink system.
- Wash: In the first sink, use warm water and a good quality meat slicer cleaner or degreasing soap for a thorough soapy water rinsing of all disassembled parts.
- Rinse: In the second sink, rinse all parts with clean, warm water to remove any soap residue. Proper rinsing with water is key.
- Sanitize: In the third sink, submerge the parts in a sanitizing solution. A proper meat slicer sanitizing spray is also an excellent, food-safe option for this step. Let the parts soak for at least one minute.
Step 4: Clean the Slicer Body
While the parts are sanitizing, use a clean cloth with your cleaning solution to wipe down the entire body of the slicer. Use a small brush to get into any crevices.
Step 5: Air Dry and Reassemble
Place all the sanitized parts on a clean surface and allow them to air dry completely. Once dry, carefully reassemble your slicer.
Conclusion: A Critical Step
In conclusion, the most critical thing after using a meat slicer you should do is follow a proper cleaning routine. This simple process prevents foodborne illness, extends the life of your machine, and ensures that all the potential uses for meat slicer projects, like preparing perfectly sliced brisket, are safe and hygienic.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What should you do after using a meat slicer?
The first thing after using a meat slicer you should do is unplug it for safety. Then, you should follow a complete cleaning and sanitizing process. Proper cleaning a meat slicer involves disassembly, washing, rinsing, and sanitizing all food-contact surfaces.
How often must a meat slicer be cleaned?
A meat slicer must be cleaned after every use. If used continuously, it must be cleaned and sanitized at least once every four hours.
How often must a meat slicer be cleaned and sanitized?
A meat slicer must be fully cleaned and sanitized after each use or every four hours of continuous use. A quality meat slicer cleaner followed by a sanitizer is the best approach.
How do you clean a meat slicer?
The process for cleaning a meat slicer involves unplugging it, disassembling the removable parts, washing them with soap and water, rinsing them, and finally soaking them in a sanitizing spray or solution before letting them air dry.