We often imagine public toilets as the height of unsanitary conditions. However, the reality is quite different. According to a study carried out by the University of Arizona on 85 trolleys, 72% of them showed traces of fecal bacteria.
A nest of bacteria dirtier than the toilet
Even more striking: the concentration of these germs would be 361 times higher on a shopping cart than on the toilet door handle. How to explain it? Quite simply by insufficient hand washing. As Dr. Gérald Kierzek, emergency physician, explains, “around two out of three people do not wash their hands after going to the toilet, then touch their keys, their steering wheel, their telephone and finally the shopping cart handle: it is dirty hands that deposit fecal germs.
Besides the lack of human hygiene, the store environment plays a key role. “The shopping cart travels between the parking lot, the rain, bird droppings and soiled packaging, like leaking packages of meat or diapers placed on the baby seat. This maintains a significant microbial flora. Studies show that around 70% of handles tested are positive for fecal bacteria, sometimes with loads much higher than toilet surfaces which are regularly cleaned.
Focus on Escherichia coli: what are the risks?
Analysis of a subgroup of carts revealed that half of them harbored Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria. While not all strains are dangerous, some, such as enterohemorrhagic E. coli, can cause serious symptoms: abdominal cramps, hemorrhagic diarrhea and, in the most serious cases, severe kidney damage.
For Dr. Kierzek, however, it is necessary to put things into perspective according to his profile.
“For a healthy adult, the main risk is mild gastroenteritis after ingesting germs via hands placed in the mouth. Certain strains can cause more severe diarrhea or even urinary infections, but it generally takes a sufficient ‘dose’ of bacteria to become ill.
Certain populations must be particularly vigilant:
“The populations most at risk are young children, who touch everything and put their hands or bars in their mouths, as well as pregnant women, the elderly or immunocompromised people.”
The right actions to do your shopping safely
To prevent your shopping session from turning into a digestive infection, a few simple reflexes are essential. The use of hydroalcoholic gel is recommended, as is the disinfection of the trolley bar.
“You should rub your hands with a hydroalcoholic solution when entering and leaving the store, or wash your hands upon returning home with soap and water for 30 seconds. Use the disinfectant wipes provided for the shopping cart handle, or take your own,” advises the doctor.
Also pay attention to behavior while shopping. “Avoid touching your face while shopping. Children should also not be allowed to lick or chew the bar, or place their snacks directly on the shopping cart.” he adds.
Cooking and conservation: continued vigilance at home
The danger doesn’t stop when you leave the store. The bacteria present on the trolley can be transferred to your food, particularly to those eaten raw or unpackaged, such as baguettes or fruits and vegetables.
To limit cross contamination, it is essential to:
- Always rinse or peel fruits and vegetables well before consuming them;
- Do not place bare food (bread, fruit) directly on the walls or bottom of the cart;
- Wash hands before handling or consuming any food after putting away groceries.
If the shopping cart is a proven vector of germs, it should not become a source of paranoia. “The risk is not zero, but remains moderate if you do not put your hands in your mouth and wash your hands after shopping. The most useful actions to hammer home are systematic hand hygiene, cleaning of handles and education of children. concludes Dr. Kierzek.