East Suffolk Council
Flooding advice for food businesses
The floodwater in your food business may contain sewage or other contaminants. Although this may be diluted there are some safety precautions you will need to take:
Food, food preparation and food storage areas
- Don’t be tempted to use, decant, eat or sell any food (this includes all open food, packaged food, bottled and tinned food and drink products) that has come into contact with sewage or contaminated floodwater.
- If you need a ‘voluntary surrender certificate’ for disposed food or drink products to meet your insurer’s requirements, contact us without delay. We will log your enquiry and issue you with the necessary certification.
- Wash down all food preparation surfaces, food storage shelves, food processing equipment, refrigerators etc. with food safe disinfectants such as Milton, Dettox or similar.
- Thoroughly wash all crockery, pots and pans with hot soapy water. If they are badly chipped or damaged do not use them.
- Clean and disinfect water taps, drink and food dispensers.
- Clean all hard surfaces with hot soapy water several times until visually clean followed by washing down with a food safe disinfectant, adhering to manufacturers’ directions.
- Hot wash (at least 60°C), professionally clean or dispose of any affected food handler clothing (i.e. aprons, hats) and other soft furnishings used in your food business such as tablecloths and napkins.
- Seek medical advice if you or anyone connected with your business develops a tummy upset.