Your shopping cart probably contains fecal bacteria

William Atkins
Friday, 04 March 2011 00:49

Science - Health

An American study has found that 72% of shopping carts tested were found to be positive for the presence of fecal bacteria. Yuck!

Researchers from the University of Arizona (Tucson) examined shopping carts used daily by people to haul groceries and other items while shopping at stores across the United States, and around the world.

They found that of 85 carts examined in four U.S. states, 72% of them had signs of fecal bacteria on them.

And, 18 of 36 carts (50%) had indications of Escherichia coli (E. coli) on them.

U.S. microbiologist Charles P. Gerba, on of the authors of the study, stated, 'That's more than you find in a supermarket's restroom That's because they use disinfecting cleaners in the restrooms.'

He adds, 'Nobody routinely cleans and disinfects shopping carts.' [MSNBC (3/1/2011): 'E. coli found on 50 percent of shopping carts']

(Note: I have read where some supermarkets do clean their shopping carts on a regular basis, and, in addition, if they are left outside in the parking lot while it is raining, that probably helps to wash away bacteria, too. In either case, you still should be aware of the possibility that something was left behind on the cart you are using.)

Page two concludes.