Knives and boards can transmit pathogenic germs to food

If blades and rubbing are not cleaned after use, they can transfer germs from one food to another. This is the result of a study by the University of Georgia. The US scientists had contaminated various types of fruit and vegetables in their laboratory with the widespread germs Escherichia coli and Salmonella. Subsequently, the products were cut with the knife or rubbed with a grater, without cleaning the utensils between the individual steps. However, the authors emphasize that such bacteria are rare in fruits and vegetables.
Lack of hygiene and improper food processing can lead to food infections. "Many are unaware that kitchen utensils and other surfaces can contribute to the spread of bacteria," explain the authors. The study results have confirmed that germs can reach other products through the use of knives and rubbing. Interestingly, the extent was different depending on the type of fruit and vegetables. Thus, the bacteria were transferred when cutting inoculated tomatoes (43%) rather than with honey melon (17%), strawberry (15%), cucumber (7%) and cantaloupe melon (3%). Even when rubbing carrots, the germs easily reach other vegetables. The connections have to be researched even more closely. But one thing is certain: once a bacterium is in the food, it is difficult to remove.

Germs on knives and kitchen utensils. Picture: imagox - fotolia

In the case of brushes and peeling knives, consumers should also be wary of the scientists. Another study has shown that cleaning with a brush or peeling melon, carrot and celery can not remove the bacteria. However, it leads to a contamination of the brush or peeling knife - even when working under running water. "Clean kitchen appliances, work surfaces and kitchen utensils such as knives immediately after use with hot water and detergent," advises Harald Seitz, nutritionist at aid infodienst e. V. This also prevents food residues and contaminants from drying up and forming invisible germ buds. Plastic boards are better to clean than wooden boards. Meat, poultry and fish should be prepared separately from other foods. (Heike Kreutz)