Pink slime is a common problem in commercial dishwashers and glasswashers that tends to arise due to improper cleaning and maintenance. Thankfully, it can be easily resolved by implementing some simple measures to ensure the machine is clean and well looked after. Not only will this improve wash results, it will also enhance the performance of your machine and help to extend its lifespan.
Here, we explain what pink slime is and how it forms, before setting out how to tackle it and prevent it from returning in the future.
What is Pink Slime?
Pink slime, also known as biofilm, is a slimy, pink deposit that can form inside your commercial dishwasher or glasswasher. It's formed from microorganisms including bacteria, fungi, and algae, that thrive in warm and moist environments, making glasswashers and dishwashers a perfect breeding ground.
Why Does Pink Slime Form?
- Warm and moist environment: Glass and dishwashers use high temperatures that create an ideal environment for microorganisms to thrive.
- Leftover organic matter: Residual food particles, soap residues, and other organic substances act as a food source for the microorganisms, promoting growth.
- Stagnant water: Inactive periods or low usage can lead to stagnant water, creating a breeding ground for pink slime.
- Water quality: Hard water with high mineral content can lead to mineral build up, providing additional surfaces for biofilm to attach to.
- Inadequate cleaning and maintenance: Neglecting regular cleaning and maintenance allows pink slime to accumulate and persist.
How to Deal with Pink Slime
Regular Cleaning
A regular cleaning routine is essential. Clean your machine daily, paying particular attention to wash and rinse arms, jets, nozzles and filters. You can read our guides on commercial dishwasher and commercial glasswasher cleaning for instructions.
It’s also important to sanitise effectively. Wipe the inside of the machine with a non-foaming surface cleaner, such as our Sanitiser & Degreaser and use a high-quality cabinet glasswasher detergent in line with the manufacturer's recommendations. Proper sanitisation kills harmful microorganisms and helps remove existing pink slime.
We also recommend descaling the machine if you start to see a build up of limescale in the wash tank or on internal components, such as the heating elements. Not only will this ensure the machine is clean and there are no surfaces for biofilm to latch onto, it will also help to prevent breakdown and extend the working life of your machine.
Prevent Stagnation
Avoid extended periods of inactivity by running your glass washer regularly and following the correct shut down procedures at the end of each day. Make sure that all water is drained prior to switching the machine off so that dirty wash water is not left in the machine overnight.
Use High Quality Chemicals
High-quality cleaning agents effectively break down grease, oils, and food residues, reducing the organic waste that microorganisms feed on. This not only ensures thorough cleaning but also prevents the build-up of biofilm. Inferior products may not clean as effectively leaving behind residues that provide a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi. By choosing high-quality chemicals, you maintain a hygienic environment within your machine, leading to spotless glassware and extending the lifespan of your equipment.
Click Here to learn more about the important role chemicals play in the warewashing process.
Control Temperature and Humidity
Monitor the temperature and humidity of the room the machine is located in, to discourage microbial growth. You should configure your machine to the right temperatures:
- 52 degrees to 55 degrees wash temperature and 70 degrees to 75 degrees rinse temperature for glasswashers.
- 60 to 65 degrees celsius wash temperature and 80 to 85 degrees celcius for commercial dishwashers.
After you've cleaned and the machine off the end of service, leave the door open so it can dry overnight. Leaving the door closed will create a moist humid environment perfect for bacteria growth.
By following these simple steps, ensuring your staff members are trained in correct cleaning/maintenance procedures, and maintaining an effective service programme for your machine, you can prevent pink slime from forming and ensure a clean, efficient and reliable commercial glasswasher.
Want to know more? Read our Complete Guide to Cleaning and Commercial Glasswashers or get in touch with our team today.