Final answer:
Food-contact surfaces should be cleaned and sanitized after pesticide application to remove any residual pesticides and reduce microorganisms to safe levels.
Step-by-step explanation:
After pesticides have been applied, food-contact surfaces should be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized to ensure that no residue from the pesticides remains. Cleaning should involve washing the surface with soap and water, followed by a rinse, to remove any physical residue. Sanitizing, which is the next step, involves the application of a sanitizing solution that is safe for food-contact surfaces which will reduce any remaining microorganisms to safe levels. It's important that the sanitizers used are also rinsed off, if the manufacturer's instructions indicate that a rinse is required, to ensure that no sanitizer residue affects the safety or taste of the food. Following these steps is crucial for maintaining food safety and protecting consumers from potential harmful effects of pesticide exposure.