The 5-Second Rule

The 5-Second Rule

The 5-second Rule is a myth, and eating food dropped on the ground can lead to bacterial contamination, which can cause foodborne illness, but following best practices such as handwashing, surface sanitation, and proper food storage can help reduce the risk of contamination.

The 5-Second Rule

What is the 5-Second Rule?

The 5-second Rule is a common belief that suggests that it is safe to eat food dropped on the ground as long as it is picked up within five seconds.

The idea is that if the food is picked up quickly, there isn't enough time for bacteria to transfer to the food and cause harm.

Scientific research has shown that this is a myth and that bacteria can transfer to food almost immediately upon contact with a contaminated surface.

 

The Science Behind the 5-Second Rule

The 5-second Rule is not based on scientific evidence.

Bacteria can immediately transfer to food upon contact with a contaminated surface, regardless of how quickly the food is picked up.

The level of contamination may depend on factors such as the type of surface, the type of food, and the amount of moisture present.

Studies have shown that when food comes into contact with a contaminated surface, such as the floor, bacteria can instantly transfer to the food.

The longer the food is in contact with the surface, the higher the level of contamination.

Therefore, even if the food is picked up within 5 seconds, it can still be contaminated with harmful bacteria.

 

Factors that Affect Bacterial Transfer

Several factors can affect the level of bacterial contamination when food is dropped on the ground, including:

  • Type of Surface - The type of surface the food comes into contact with can affect the level of bacterial contamination. Rough surfaces, such as carpets or textured flooring, can harbor more bacteria than smooth surfaces, such as tile or wood.
  • Type of Food -The food that is dropped can also affect the level of bacterial contamination. Foods that are moist or have a high water content, such as fruits and vegetables, can attract more bacteria than dry foods like crackers or chips.
  • Amount of Moisture Present - Moisture can promote bacterial growth, so the amount of moisture present on the surface or the food can affect the level of contamination. Wet or damp surfaces can harbor more bacteria than dry surfaces, and moist food can attract more bacteria than dry food.
  • Length of Time on the Surface - The longer the food is in contact with the surface, the higher the level of contamination. Bacteria can transfer to food almost immediately upon contact with a contaminated surface, so even a few seconds can be enough for harmful bacteria to transfer.
  • Presence of Other Contaminants - The presence of other contaminants, such as dirt or debris, on the surface can also affect the level of bacterial contamination. These contaminants can provide a breeding ground for bacteria and increase the risk of foodborne illness.

 

Risks of Eating Food that's Been Dropped on the Ground

Several potential health risks are associated with eating food that has been dropped on the ground.

The principal risk is the potential for bacterial contamination, which can induce foodborne illness.

Several types of bacteria can be present on surfaces and can cause illness if ingested, including:

  • Escherichia coli (E. coli)
  • Salmonella
  • Staphylococcus aureus (Staph)
  • Listeria

Specific demographics are more susceptible to foodborne illness than others--specifically young children, older adults, pregnant women, and people with compromised immune systems.

These groups may be more vulnerable to the effects of harmful bacteria and may experience more severe symptoms if they become ill.

 

Best Practices for Avoiding Bacterial Contamination

To reduce the risk of bacterial contamination and foodborne illness, here are some tips to follow:

  • Wash hands frequently - Handwashing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of harmful bacteria. Be sure to wash your hands with soap and water before handling food, using the bathroom, and touching anything that may be contaminated.
  • Clean and sanitize surfaces - Clean and sanitize all surfaces and utensils that come into contact with food. Use hot water and soap to clean surfaces, followed by a sanitizing solution to kill any remaining bacteria.
  • Avoid cross-contamination - Cross-contamination can occur when bacteria from one food item is transferred to another. To avoid cross-contamination, use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw meats, poultry, and seafood, and wash them thoroughly between uses.
  • Cook food to the correct temperature - Cooking food to the correct temperature can kill harmful bacteria that may be present. Use a food thermometer to ensure food is cooked to the recommended internal temperature.
  • Store food properly - Proper storage can help prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. Store food at the correct temperature, and keep raw meats, poultry, and seafood separate from ready-to-eat foods.

 

References & Resources

 

Takeaway

Scientific research has shown that bacteria can transfer to food almost immediately upon contact with a contaminated surface, regardless of how quickly the food is picked up.

Factors that affect the level of bacterial contamination when food is dropped on the ground include:

  • The type of surface.
  • The type of food.
  • The amount of moisture present.
  • The length of time on the surface.
  • The presence of other contaminants.

Eating food dropped on the ground can pose potential health risks, especially for young children, older adults, pregnant women, and people with compromised immune systems.

Regular cleaning can aid in best practices for avoiding bacterial contamination by removing dirt and debris, which can serve as a breeding ground for harmful bacteria.

Cleaning and sanitizing surfaces can also kill any remaining bacteria that may be present.

This can help prevent cross-contamination and reduce the risk of foodborne illness.

Regular cleaning can also promote good hygiene and reduce the spread of bacteria by removing germs from hands and surfaces.

Outsourcing is a proven method for onboarding highly in-demand cleaning and disinfection services and experience for a fraction of the price of maintaining a similar service in-house.

If you would like more information regarding the effectiveness of high-performance infection prevention and control measures, or if you would like to schedule a free, no-obligation on-site assessment of your facility's custodial needs, contact us today for a free quote!

In Bakersfield, CA, call (661) 437-3253

In Fresno, CA, call (559) 206-1059

In Valencia, CA, or Santa Clarita, CA, call (661) 437-3253

In Palmdale, CA, or Lancaster, CA, call (661) 371-4756

Vanguard Cleaning Systems of the Southern Valley

Vanguard Cleaning Systems of the Southern Valley