Cardboard

Examples of where you might find cardboard:

• Produce packing boxes

Notes about the surface:

• Cardboard is a porous surface and can be difficult to clean and sanitize. Although waxed boxes reduce infiltration of water and other substances, wax does not provide an impermeable barrier and, therefore, is still considered a porous surface.
• Includes both non-waxed and waxed cardboard. Both are intended for single use. 
• When wet, non-waxed boxes are structurally damaged and cannot be reused.
• Waxed boxes may withstand water but potential dirt and pathogens can adhere to the wax surface. We do not recommend using waxed boxes that have become saturated. 
• If reusing structurally intact cardboard boxes, remove surface dirt and insert a single-use plastic liner or other protective material between the cardboard surface and the produce as a risk reduction strategy.
• Store all types of cardboard boxes off the ground in a clean, dry location that is protected from pests and other contaminants.