Many people spread by insufficient hand washing pathogens in the living room

How important is the right washing of the hands?

There are a number of dangerous bacteria in our kitchens, many of which do not know anything about them. Researchers now found that most people do not wash their hands sufficiently before eating, which can lead to various illnesses. Ignorance spreads dangerous bacteria in the kitchen and throughout the house.

The scientists of North Carolina State University and the U.S. Department of Agriculture's recent research found that inadequate hand washing before eating can lead to dangerous illness and that about 97 percent of people's hands are not really clean before eating. The physicians now presented the results of their study to the public.

Proper hand washing prevents the spread of dangerous bacteria, which can otherwise lead to serious illnesses. (Picture: Picture-Factory / fotolia.com)

Lack of hand hygiene can cause cross-contamination

If people do not sufficiently wash their hands before eating, this can lead to cross-contamination of foods and other surfaces, which can then trigger food-borne illnesses. People can not see, smell or feel bacteria. Proper hand washing can protect your family and prevent bacteria from contaminating your food and key areas in your kitchen, say the experts.

97 percent of people do not wash their hands properly

For example, the preliminary results of the observational study showed that people do not wash their hands properly in 97 percent of the time. Most people also fail to wash their hands for a necessary 20 seconds. The investigation also revealed that many participants did not dry their hands with a clean towel.

Meat should always be heated sufficiently

The researchers also found that only 34 percent of participants used a diet thermometer to check that their meat was roasted properly. Of the people who use a thermometer, heated almost half the meat still not to the safe minimum temperature, stress the doctors in a press release to the results of the investigation.

On what the bacteria are transferred frequently?

The study also showed that bacteria are often spread from raw poultry to other surfaces and foods in the test kitchen. In 48 percent of the cases also spice containers were used, which are used in the preparation of meat. In eleven percent of all cases, the bacteria spread to refrigerator handles and in five percent of all cases, salads became contaminated due to cross-contamination.

48 million Americans suffer from food-borne diseases

The US Center for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that about 48 million Americans suffer from food-borne diseases each year. This leads to about 128,000 hospital admissions and 3,000 deaths, say the physicians. Particularly at risk are children, older adults and people with a weakened immune system.

You should pay special attention to this when grilling

In line with the barbecue season, experts recall that people should use a food thermometer and meat and poultry products must be prepared at the recommended safe temperatures. Beef, pork, lamb and veal should be heated to at least 63 degrees Celsius. Minced meat (such as burgers), on the other hand, should be heated to about 71 degrees Celsius before consumption. Poultry must be heated to 74 degrees Celsius before it can be safely consumed.

How do I wash my hands properly??

Always wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw meat, poultry or eggs with soap and water. Also, make sure you wash your hands for a full 20 seconds, and then always dry your hands with a clean towel, experts suggest. (As)