Which statement best describes the role of sanitizer in food safety?

The role of sanitizer in food safety is primarily to reduce germs on surfaces, making option B the best choice. Sanitizers are used in food service environments to eliminate harmful microorganisms that can contaminate food and surfaces. This process is essential for maintaining a safe environment and preventing foodborne illnesses. By effectively reducing the number of germs, sanitizers help ensure that food preparation and storage areas remain safe for handling and preparing food.

Cooking food does not fall within the function of a sanitizer, as sanitizers work on surfaces rather than during the cooking process itself. While taste can be improved through various cooking techniques and the use of seasonings, sanitizers do not impact the flavor of food. Preservation involves preventing spoilage of food through methods such as refrigeration or chemical additives, which is distinct from the function of sanitizers. Thus, the focus on germ reduction on surfaces aligns perfectly with the role of sanitizers in promoting food safety.