Did you know that the stomach flu, or norovirus, could spread through something as simple as the utensils we use in our kitchen? This is especially true during the winter months when the virus is most active. So let’s discuss how this happens and what you can do to prevent it.
Norovirus: The Winter Vomiting Disease
The norovirus is a stomach bug that’s been nicknamed the “winter vomiting disease.” It can lead to symptoms like stomach cramps, nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. It’s extremely contagious, meaning the virus can spread quickly from person to person.
This winter, a particularly nasty strain of the virus is believed to have originated in Australia before making its way to the United States. So why is it happening now, and how can you protect yourself and your loved ones? Well, the answer might be lurking in your kitchen.
Contaminated Knives and Food Graters
Research at the Center for Food Safety at the University of Georgia has shown that the norovirus can indeed be spread by contaminated kitchen utensils, especially knives and food graters.
In their study, researchers conducted a series of tests to understand how the hepatitis A virus and norovirus could be transferred between fruits, vegetables, and various kitchen utensils. They used clean, uncontaminated knives and graters on virus-infected fruits and vegetables and found that those once-clean utensils could then cross-contaminate up to seven more pieces of produce with the virus when used subsequently.
Preventing the Spread of Norovirus
Understanding this mode of transmission highlights the importance of taking measures to prevent the spread of norovirus through contaminated utensils. Here are some steps you can take to ensure the safety of the food you prepare and serve:
1. Wash Your Hands
First and foremost, make sure you wash your hands thoroughly before, during, and after handling food. Use warm water and soap, scrubbing for at least 20 seconds. Make sure to clean under your nails and between your fingers. Hand hygiene is one of the most critical protective measures against the spread of norovirus. Remember that germs can easily spread from your hands to the food you prepare, as well as the utensils you use.
2. Clean Your Kitchen Utensils
Wash your kitchen knives, graters, and other utensils after each use, ensuring they are free of any residue or food particles. Use hot, soapy water, and scrub every part of the utensil before rinsing. Don’t be tempted to skip utensil washing, as cross-contamination can still happen even if you think a utensil looks clean.
3. Disinfect Your Cutting Boards
Whether you use a wooden or plastic cutting board, ensure it’s thoroughly disinfected and free of scratches or grooves. Bacteria and viruses can easily get trapped in these crevices, allowing them to contaminate your food preparation. A sanitizer solution made from one teaspoon of bleach in a quart of water can be used to clean and disinfect the surface.
4. Wash Your Fruits and Vegetables
Before you start cutting or grating your produce, always wash it thoroughly under running water. Even if the skin or rind is inedible, such as in the case of avocados or lemons, wash them to remove any germs that could be transferred to the edible parts during the cutting process.
5. Be Cautious When Dining Out
Lastly, be cautious of the restaurants and food establishments you dine in. Pay attention to the cleanliness of the establishment, the staff’s hand hygiene, and whether or not the utensils, plates, and glasses appear clean. Dining in a dirty restaurant increases your risk of coming into contact with contaminated food and the norovirus.
In Conclusion
The winter vomiting disease caused by the norovirus can be particularly unpleasant and disruptive to your life. By following these simple steps, you can help prevent the spread of the virus through contaminated kitchen utensils and ensure that the food you prepare remains safe and healthy for you and your loved ones. Stay vigilant, practice good hygiene, and enjoy cooking and dining in a safer environment.
