Nichtauftrocknendes viscous surface treatment agent

The invention relates to a non-drying, viscous agent for treating surfaces, containing 90 - 98.5 weight percent water, 1 - 4 weight percent hygroscopic constituents, 0.2 - 2 weight percent preservatives and as much thickening agent as is required to give the mixture a viscosity of 2,000 to 10,000 mPa (at 22 DEG C, measured according to Brookfield, No. 3 spindle, 3.12 revolutions per minute). The invention also relates to the use of the inventive agent for treating surfaces which come into direct contact with foodstuffs or other surfaces in facilities where food is processed. The inventive agent keeps the surface moist and prevents food and dirt from drying onto said surface.