Bacteria in the Kitchen
We tend to overlook the fact that kitchen surfaces are the ideal
environment for bacterial growth. Even though the surfaces may
appear clean, they may still harbor invisible bacteria such as
Salmonella and
E coli. Sponges and rags, countertops and cutting boards are common
kitchen surfaces where bacteria can thrive.
Sponges and Rags
 Sponges and rags are the most overlooked environment for germ
infestation. The cellulose sponge is ideal for bacterial growth.
Here bacteria have a surface to cling to, a supply of nutrients
and moisture. This is exactly what they need to thrive. Bacteria
can survive at least two days on a sponge as it slowly dries. On
dry surfaces, bacteria can survive no more than a few hours, but
this is long enough to infect another food source or a person’s
hand during meal preparation.
Countertops and Cutting Boards
Bacteria live in the small cracks and crevices of countertops
and cutting boards. Once colonies are established, they can produce
film that actually protects them from being dislodged. These colonies
can withstand a spray of water, a little rubbing or a mild detergent
solution.
There is good news!
Kitchen bacteria can be destroyed by proper cleaning. Surfaces
must be cleaned and sanitized to destroy bacteria. A good scrubbing
with a detergent solution is the first step followed by a sanitizing
rinse. In the household, a dilute solution of bleach will destroy
the bacteria. A good sanitizing solution for hard, nonporous surfaces
is 2 teaspoons liquid bleach in 1 gallon of water.
It is estimated that about 76 million Americans contact some sort
of foodborne illness annually. Careful food handling and proper
kitchen sanitation can destroy bacteria that causes foodborne illness.
Take the necessary steps to ensure that your family is not at risk.
Sources:
- Germs are Hidden Everywhere
- Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation - Environmental
Sanitation and Food Safety
Patty Myers, Research Associate
- University of Florida, Food Science and Human Nutrition Food
Safety Listserve, Gainesville, Florida
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