TP4 disinfectants for the food industry

TP4 disinfectants (food-contact surfaces and utensils)

Biocidal products classified as Product Type 4 (TP4) are specifically intended for disinfecting equipment, containers, eating utensils, surfaces or pipework used in the production, transport, storage or consumption of food or drink. These formulas deliver antimicrobial action and are optimised to rinse off easily or designed to evaporate quickly, so they leave no residue that could alter the organoleptic properties of food.

Classification of disinfectants by method of use and chemical composition

Concentrated formulas (require dilution):
- Based on amines and quaternary ammonium compounds: Liquid disinfectant detergents with good cleaning properties, low foaming, excellent compatibility with many materials and odour-neutralising action (Klintensiv AminoIND, Deziamino, Klintensiv Detergent dezinfectant concentrat plus).
- Based on active oxygen (peroxide compounds): Biodegradable formulas acting by cellular oxidation, effective even at low working temperatures, ideal for disinfecting tanks, pipework, production lines and storage containers in the dairy and beverage industries (Oxoklin powder).
- Chlorine-based: Fast-acting, broad-spectrum products available in liquid form (Hypoklintensiv) or as effervescent tablets, excellent for slaughterhouses, butcher shops or egg decontamination (Klintensiv KlinoChlor Tabs).
Ready-to-use (RTU) formulas:
- Alcohol-based: A fast-acting, instantly drying disinfectant solution for small surfaces, furniture and objects that evaporates completely, leaves no residue and requires no rinsing (Klinosept 4IND).
- Based on quaternary ammonium compounds: Formulas developed for high-level cleaning and disinfection of worktops and cutting or conveying machinery (Klinopro™), as well as specialised solutions for professional kitchens that remove heavy grease, oil and burnt-on food while disinfecting in just 5 minutes (Klinall Kitchen Disinfectant Degreaser).

What does the PT4 classification mean and why is it important for the food industry?

PT4 is a category of biocidal products intended for disinfecting equipment, containers, utensils, pipework and surfaces that come into direct contact with food, drink or animal feed. Using PT4-approved Klintensiv disinfectants is mandatory for the chemical safety of food products and ensures the business complies during official DSVSA inspections and HACCP audits.

Do surfaces need rinsing after using PT4 disinfectants?

Whether surfaces must be rinsed after using Klintensiv PT4 disinfectants depends on the instructions in each product's technical documentation. Products containing surfactants must be rinsed off with drinking water once the contact time has elapsed to prevent chemical contamination of food, while alcohol-based products evaporate without leaving residue, so no rinsing is needed.

Which PT4 disinfectants have proven efficacy against Salmonella enterica, Lactobacillus brevis and Saccharomyces cerevisiae?

The Klintensiv PT4 disinfectants with proven efficacy against specific strains such as Salmonella enterica, Lactobacillus brevis and Saccharomyces cerevisiae are Oxoklin F&B (liquid) and Klintensiv Klinochlor tabs (solid effervescent chlorine tablets). Both disinfectants need a short contact time of just 5 minutes to eliminate these pathogens from the food production environment.