As a journalist, I have come across many debunked myths and beliefs in my career. One such belief is the popular “five-second rule” when it comes to dropped food. While some people believe that as long as food is only on the ground for a brief moment, it is safe to eat, this is not entirely accurate.
Board-certified internal medicine physician and gastroenterology fellow Dr. Wendi Lebrett warns that believing in the five-second rule could lead to serious health issues, such as stomach pain. Dr. Lebrett states that there is no safe time for food to be consumed after it has been on the floor, and bacteria can transfer to food almost immediately upon contact with the ground. Research shows that some foods, like bread and bologna, can be contaminated with salmonella within those five seconds.
Instead of relying on the five-second rule, Dr. Kenneth Brown advises against eating anything that has fallen on the floor, regardless of how quickly it is picked up. The idea that food is safe to eat if it has only touched the ground briefly is not backed by scientific evidence, and it is better to err on the side of caution when it comes to food safety.
In conclusion, while some people may believe that they can safely eat dropped food based on a mythical five-second rule, this belief could lead to serious health issues such as stomach pain or salmonellosis infection. It’s crucial to take proper precautions when handling and consuming food and avoid eating any dropped items without thoroughly washing them first.
As journalists, we must always strive for accuracy in our reporting and be cautious about spreading unfounded beliefs or misinformation. By doing so, we help maintain public trust in us and promote responsible journalism practices.
