The truth about the 5-second rule | Fusion - WeRIndia

We’ve all been there—dropping food on the floor and debating whether to pick it up and eat it. This is known as a 5-second rule and some call it a 3-second rule.

That means the dropped food on the floor is safe to eat if it is retrieved within the specified duration.

In other words, the popular 5-second rule suggests food is safe if retrieved quickly, but is it really true? Let’s dive into the science.

Studies have shown that food can pick up bacteria the moment it touches the floor.

While grabbing it faster might limit bacterial transfer, it doesn’t guarantee safety.

Here are some interesting points you should know about the rule:

Clean Floors Aren’t Always Clean

• Floors that appear spotless may still harbour bacteria, as germs can survive on surfaces for extended periods.
• Invisible to the naked eye, these microbes might be lurking on your kitchen or cafeteria floor, ready to hitch a ride on dropped food.

Speed Matters—But Not Enough

• The food on the floor longer than 5 seconds collects more bacteria.
• However, contamination can occur instantly, especially in favourable conditions.

Wet Foods Are Germ Magnets

Moist foods like apple slices or pasta are more prone to picking up bacteria than dry ones. This is beacuse their wet surfaces make it easier for germs to stick.

When in Doubt, Toss It Out

• Not all bacteria are harmful, but some can cause serious illnesses like diarrhoea.
• Since you can’t see or gauge the risk, the safest option is to discard the dropped food.

By reading the matter you might have understood that the 5-second rule is more myth than fact.

While it’s tempting to rescue a tasty treat, it’s better to prioritize your health. Next time, resist the urge and opt for a fresh bite instead!

Image from Pxhere (Free for commercial use / CC0 Public Domain)

Image Published on February 21, 2017

Image Reference: https://pxhere.com/en/photo/778231