What is the primary function of iodine as a chemical sanitizer?

The primary function of iodine as a chemical sanitizer is characterized by its effectiveness at low concentrations and being less corrosive than chlorine. Iodine works well in sanitizing surfaces in foodservice settings because it can effectively kill a wide range of microorganisms while maintaining a lower risk of damaging surfaces or equipment compared to stronger agents like chlorine. This quality makes iodine a valuable option in various sanitation applications, particularly where sensitive materials are involved.

While it's true that iodine can be more effective at higher temperatures, this is not the primary attribute defining its function as a sanitizer, and maximizing temperatures can sometimes lead to less stability of the iodine solution. The suggestion that iodine is only used for cleaning and not sanitation directly contradicts its recognized role in food safety protocols as a sanitizer. Additionally, although iodine can cause irritation to the skin, this is a safety concern rather than a characteristic of its effectiveness as a sanitizer. Thus, the correct choice highlights iodine's ability to function effectively in sanitization tasks while minimizing potential damage to materials.