A team of experts revealed that the safe period for eating food after it falls to the ground varies depending on the type of food item and the location where it falls.
The study showed that “wet” foods, such as watermelon, apples, and prepared meats, attract more bacteria faster than dry foods, such as potato chips or biscuits. So, the less time it takes to get it out of the ground, the better.
Although the bathroom and kitchen host the most bacteria, there is no safe place for bacteria to escape in your home, as there are approximately 400 microscopic germs in areas such as the living room.
The study revealed that there are 30,000 bacterial cells per 100 milliliters of water on sidewalks, including E. coli, which can be carried into the home and therefore any food you drop on the ground.
Although washing food removes some visible particles such as dust or hair, germs remain, regardless of whether it is within 5 seconds of dropping the food.
“Unfortunately, the five-second rule is a myth,” said Wendy Lepreet, MD, an internal medicine physician.
Experts warned that harmful bacteria are present on every surface around us, and can be transmitted to food once it comes into contact.
The process takes less than a second, as food acts as a magnet for bacteria such as salmonella, E. coli, and listeria.
Bacteria are highly adept at attaching to food thanks to tiny structures that act like caterpillar hairs that allow them to climb trees.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 48 million Americans become ill each year from foodborne illness, and 128,000 people are hospitalized.
Studies have also shown that the longer food stays on the ground, the more bacteria it will collect.
Ultimately, it may be time to switch to a new mantra: “If in doubt, throw away food immediately.”
Nothing should be done in doubt.
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