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PFPriority Foundation · FDA Food Code 4-601.11 · 10-30 days (Priority Foundation)

How to fix: Mold or Slime in Ice Machine

Mold, slime, or dark buildup was found inside the ice machine bin or on the ice-making components.

What this violation means

FDA Food Code 4-601.11 requires food-contact equipment — including ice machines and their bins — to be clean to sight and touch and free of any food residue, grease, or other soil. Ice is classified as food under food safety law, which means the ice bin, deflector plate, water curtain, and chute are all food-contact surfaces requiring regular cleaning and sanitizing. Mold and slime in an ice machine form when cleaning is infrequent, when the machine is in a humid location, or when the water filter is overdue for replacement. The mold can transfer to drinks and cause illness, particularly for immunocompromised individuals.

Step-by-step: how to fix this before re-inspection

1Remove all ice and completely empty the bin before beginning cleaning
2Wash, rinse, and sanitize all food-contact surfaces of the ice machine according to the manufacturer instructions
3Replace the water filter if it is overdue per the manufacturer schedule
4Document the cleaning with a dated log and bring it to the re-inspection
5Schedule professional ice machine service if mold growth is extensive or recurring

What the inspector rechecks at re-inspection

WHAT THE INSPECTOR CHECKS

Inspectors do not just look at the surface. For this violation, expect them to verify:

☐Opens the ice bin and inspects the interior walls, deflector plate, water curtain, and chute for visible mold or slime
☐Checks the ice scoop and its holder for buildup or improper storage
☐Looks for a posted cleaning log or schedule showing when the machine was last sanitized
☐Checks whether the water filter has been replaced on the manufacturer recommended schedule
☐Reviews the exterior of the machine for evidence of condensation and moisture accumulation

How to prevent this violation from recurring

Clean and sanitize the ice machine on the manufacturer recommended schedule (typically every 6 months minimum)
Post a cleaning log on the machine and record every cleaning with date and employee initials
Replace the water filter on schedule and log the replacement date

Related violations to check

Food-Contact Surfaces Not Sanitized Between Uses→Improper Sanitizer Concentration→
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This document is for informational purposes only. It is not legal advice and does not guarantee a passing re-inspection score. Always verify requirements with your local health department. Fix steps are based on FDA Food Code 4-601.11; individual jurisdictions may have additional requirements.

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