Review our frequently asked questions about ATP testing
ATP (adenosine triphosphate) is a chemical found in every cell of living organisms. It stores energy and gives cells energy they need to function.
As well as being existing in living cells, it is present in residues from organic sources such as:
- Food debris remaining on a surface after cleaning
- Biofilms produced by bacteria
- Surfaces touched by operators
2. Why is proactive cleaning and sanitation important for environmental monitoring?
Cleaning and sanitation programs are needed to prevent pathogen and spoilage microorganism as well as allergens in food production facilities. ATP testing is a critical step to assess the effectiveness of your cleaning and sanitation programs quickly and easily to ensure production can begin.
Environmental monitoring, like ATP testing, is essential to support the programs that help identify the high-risk sites for pathogens and spoilage microorganisms allowing you to have peace of mind when making and managing risk.
ATP testing can provide a measurable and objective assessment of the cleanliness of equipment and surfaces prior to food processing or preparation. Many processing facilities measure the effectiveness of their cleaning practices to ensure production can begin.