Scientists have found the most bacteria-contaminated items in the kitchen

0

A new study has identified items in the kitchen that are prone to cross-contamination. This is called contamination with microbes from the air, from people, from food, from tools or work surfaces.

The researchers recruited 371 people ostensibly to test new recipes, although in reality the scientists had a different goal. The volunteers were asked to cook turkey cutlets, writes Science Times. They did not know that the ground beef contained MS2, a harmless indicator bacterium. The participants were supposed to behave in the kitchen as usual. The scientists then wiped down the kitchen surfaces and checked them for signs of cross-contamination.

The researchers found microorganisms on a knife handle, cutting board, frying pan, inside of the sink, a rag and sponge, a faucet handle, a soap dispenser, a refrigerator handle, and a garbage can lid. Overall, the results were not unexpected, but there was some positive news as well—most surfaces were less than 20% contaminated.

However, there was one unexpected point of cross-contamination: spice jars. They had more contaminants than the garbage can lid.