You may have come across a shocking statistic circulating on the internet: cutting boards are said to have 200 times more fecal bacteria than a toilet seat. It’s a statement that’s hard to ignore, often shared to highlight the need for kitchen cleanliness.
But where did this claim originate, and is there any truth to it? Let’s examine the facts to help you keep your cutting board clean and safe.
The Source Of The Statistic
The claim that cutting boards harbor more fecal bacteria than a toilet seat has been widely circulated online. It was brought to mainstream attention by Dr. Charles Gerba, a professor of virology at the University of Arizona, who has mentioned it in several media outlets. However, digging deeper into the research behind this claim reveals that the data is not as concrete as it seems.
This statistic’s origin is a Global Hygiene Council (GHC) survey referenced in a 2014 Huffington Post article.Sadly, the research that found this information isn’t easy to access. Although reliable sources have mentioned it, there isn’t a specific study that proves the exact number.
So, we’re not sure if the statistic about fecal bacteria being 200 times more on cutting boards is completely true, but it does show that cutting boards can have harmful bacteria if not cleaned well.
Read More : California May Soon Require Warning Labels on Gas Stoves: Here’s What It Could Mean
Why Do Cutting Boards Have Bacteria?
Bacteria on cutting boards often come from raw meat or fresh produce. Meat, especially, can transfer fecal bacteria from animals to the cutting surface. If you’re only rinsing your board with warm water after using it, you’re not effectively killing these bacteria.
Another reason cutting boards can harbor bacteria is that knives leave small grooves on the surface, which can trap pathogens. Even if your cutting board looks clean, these indentations may still hold harmful bacteria, especially if worn out from frequent use.
Which Cutting Boards Are Cleanest?
There’s been debate about whether wooden or plastic cutting boards are more hygienic. Some people argue that wood is less sanitary because it’s more porous. However, wood also has natural antimicrobial properties, which may help combat bacteria.
A 2015 study published in the Journal of Consumer Protection and Food Safety found no significant difference in bacterial counts between wooden and plastic boards after proper cleaning.
Other materials like glass, stone, or bamboo are less prone to scratching, which means fewer grooves to harbor bacteria. However, these surfaces are also harder and can quickly dull your knives. Glass, in particular, can be slippery and dangerous to use. Whether you choose wood or plastic, the key to a clean cutting board lies in regular cleaning and timely replacement.
Read More: Forget Dating Apps: Finding Love at the Grocery Store is Spain’s Latest Trend
How To Clean Your Cutting Board Properly?
Thankfully, keeping your cutting board clean doesn’t require any fancy tools. Follow these simple steps to ensure your board stays bacteria-free:
- Wash with soap and water: Use warm or hot water and an antimicrobial dish soap. Scrub both sides and the board’s edges, even if you only used one side.
- Use separate boards: To prevent cross-contamination, keep one board for raw meat and another for everything else. This reduces the risk of spreading harmful bacteria from raw meat to ready-to-eat foods.
- Replace worn-out boards: If your board is full of knife marks or visibly damaged, it’s time to replace it. Deep grooves can trap bacteria that soap and water may not fully eliminate.
By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of contamination and keep your kitchen safe.
Conclusion
While the claim that cutting boards have 200 times more fecal bacteria than a toilet seat might be unsettling, the reality isn’t quite as grim as it sounds. The bacteria likely come from raw meat, not improper handwashing or poor hygiene.
The key takeaway is to ensure your cutting board is thoroughly cleaned after every use and to replace it when it becomes too worn.With these simple precautions, your cutting board will remain a safe and sanitary tool in your kitchen.