WASHINGTON, D.C. (WTXL) - A new study shows most people are spreading dangerous bacteria around the kitchen and don't even realize it.
A recent study by the U.S. Department of Agriculture shows that when it comes to people washing their hands before meals, they fail to properly clean their hands 97 percent of the time.
The USDA says rushed handwashing can lead to cross-contamination of food and other surfaces, resulting in foodborne illness.
The results of the study showed:
- Handwashing: the study revealed that consumers are not washing their hands correctly 97 percent of the time.
- Most consumers failed to wash their hands for the necessary 20 seconds
- Numerous participants did not dry their hands with a clean towel
- Thermometer use: results reveal that only 34 percent of participants used a food thermometer to check that their burgers were cooked properly.
- Of those who did use the food thermometer, nearly half still did not cook the burgers to the safe minimum internal temperature.
- Cross contamination: the study showed participants spreading bacteria from raw poultry onto other surfaces and food items in the test kitchen.
- 48 percent of the time are contaminating spice containers used while preparing burgers,
- 11 percent of the time are spreading bacteria to refrigerator handles, and
- 5 percent of the time are tainting salads due to cross-contamination.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention believes that 48 million Americans get sick with food-borne illnesses each year, resulting in 128,000 hospitalizations and 3,000 deaths.
The USDA reminds people to use a food thermometer and cook meat and poultry products to the recommended internal temperatures.
USDA says meat and poultry products are done when they reach these minimum internal temperatures:
- Beef, pork, lamb and veal (steaks, roasts and chops): 145°F.
- Ground meats (burgers): 160°F.
- Poultry (whole or ground): 165°F.
They want to remind people to always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling raw meat, poultry, or eggs.
You need to wash your hands for a full 20 seconds and always dry your hands on a clean towel.
