The kitchen sponge is used daily on various household tasks, from washing dishes to clean different surfaces. Usually produced with synthetic or natural materials, it is valued for its ability to easily absorb and remove dirty dirty. However, this absorbent capacity is precisely what can make sponges in a focus of contamination as they often accumulate food and moisture residues, creating an ideal environment for the development of bacteria.
Investigation reveals alarming presence of bacteria
A study conducted by the Norwegian Institute of Food, Fisheries and Aquaculture Research () revealed that cooking sponges can house an extraordinary amount of bacteria, even exceeding the number of people on the planet.
According to the main researcher of this study, Trond Moreter, although many of these bacteria are harmless to humans, others are potentially dangerous, such as Salmonella. These bacteria easily survive in the humid environment of sponges, even with the constant presence of detergents.
How bacteria spread through the kitchen
Moreter warned that, regardless of how people clean or disinfect sponges, they always maintain some degree of moisture and waste that favor the proliferation of microorganisms. This way, these bacteria can spread easily into the hands of users, kitchen utensils and other household surfaces.
Kitchen Brushes: The recommended alternative
In the same investigation, scientists analyzed alternatives to traditional sponges, namely cooking brushes made of bamboo and natural bristles. The results revealed that these brushes have a significantly higher ability to keep dry among uses, reducing the presence of bacteria.
Trond Moretro specifically highlighted the advantage of brushes, mentioning that they quickly dry, preventing moisture accumulation, and have a cable that protects hands from direct contact with water and detergents.
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Correct maintenance of sponges
On the other hand, Cath Rees, professor of microbiology at the University of Nottingham and co -author of the study, stresses that it is possible to continue to use sponges provided they are correctly dry after each use. Effective drying is critical to preventing a focus of bacterial contamination from becoming a focus.
Practical Recommendations
Given the results of the investigation, experts recommend some preventive measures:
- Alternate between sponges and brushes, according to the type of cleaning.
- Always ensure the total drying of sponges after use.
- Regularly replace sponges to avoid accumulation of bacteria.
By following these simple guidelines, domestic hygiene can be significantly improve and reduce the risks associated with inadequate use of traditional sponges.
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