Abstract: A double-seat valve more particularly usable for the control of fluids to be kept separate in the chemical and foods sector is described, which has a valve housing (2) forming a first and a second housing spaces. There are two series-positioned valve bodies (10, 11) movable relative to one another and axially with respect to the valve housing, which define between them a leakage cavity (12) open to the environment of the valve. Each of the valve bodies has at least one sealing groove (15, 16) open to a housing-fixed valve seat or face (5) and in which is placed a seal (13, 14). According to the invention, the sealing grooves (15, 16) are connected in fluid-conducting manner through the associated valve bodies (10, 11) to the leakage cavity (12). The valve satisfies the highest possible hygienic demands, has little or no tendency towards contaminant deposition in the sealing area and can be rapidly and effectively cleaned.