Sanitation Standards for Commercial Ice Bins

Because ice is used to cool the food and drinks consumers digest, there are health codes regulating sanitation guidelines for commercial ice bins. These regulations vary by state.

Local Sanitation Standards

• Regardless of where you live, there are sanitation standards for commercial ice bins. Because the guidelines vary depending on jurisdiction, consult your local health department to learn about local sanitation laws. General guidelines, however, include: avoiding the use of ice bins for storing bottles or cans to avoid contamination; drains should be hard piped to an indirect drain with a floor sink that provides a proper air gap; and ice bin openings should be covered when not in use.

  A regularly updated and documented sanitizing schedule is also recommended.

Manufacturer Sanitation Standards

• In addition to legally mandated sanitation standards for commercial ice bins, manufacturers of ice bins also recommend maintenance and sanitation guidelines particular to each model. In some cases, the manufacturer also sells sanitation solutions for commercial ice bins.

Sanitation Solution Options

• Depending upon what is permitted by your local health department, you may have options with regard to the sanitation solutions you may use. For those who prefer to use organic solutions, basic lemon juice may suffice. Another option is a nickel-safe scale remover that cleans surfaces while protecting the metals of your ice bin.