Mysophobia, a term first coined in 1879 to describe the fear of contamination and germs, is commonly known as germophobia today. This phobia has some real world value because of the findings by researchers and scientists in recent studies. The Journal of Applied Microbiology published a recent study that states between 20 and 30 percent of viruses can be readily transferred from a fingertip to a glass surface, much like the surface or screen on a smartphone or tablet. The importance of kitchen hygiene and safety and sanitation in the kitchen should not be shrugged off with an eye roll anymore. There are programs out there that help to educate food service workers on leading kitchen safety tips and food safety guidelines. To learn about the safety and sanitation in the kitchen educational resources simply research sanitation and safety courses in your industry and area.
Another study was recently published that compares the amount of bacteria in a dogs mouth, around 60 different types, to the amount of bacteria in a cats mouth, which is between 16 and 18, with the leading reason being that cats do not keep their mouths open as much as dogs do. The spread of germs and bacteria is more common than we think and that is a large reason why safety and sanitation in the kitchen is becoming a major focus for most food service workers. Companies that focus on safety and sanitation in the kitchen are beginning to train their employees in proper food handling safety and are also beginning to use a kitchen sanitation checklist to confirm that their employees are follow safety and sanitation in the kitchen procedures properly.
A University of Arizona bacteriologist claims that 93 percent of all shoes have fecal matter on the bottom. If you think that is a little over the top, think again. There are plenty of bacteria and viruses floating in the air, the ones on the ground are bound to have some negative traits. That is just another example of just how easily bacteria can be spread without proper sanitation. The good news for those truly concerned with safety and sanitation in the kitchen is that regular soap is just as affective as antibacterial soap and poses fewer health risks. Start teaching your staff the importance of safety and sanitation in the kitchen today. For more, read this link.