Whether you like to decant pantry staples like spices into new containers or leave them in their original packaging, the importance of cleaning your herb and spice containers can’t be overstated. The biggest concern isn’t inside the containers, in contact with the spices and seasonings, but rather on the outside.
The Hidden Risks of Contaminated Spice Jars
According to a 2022 study published by the Journal of Food Protection, up to 48% of spice jars sampled showed traces of MS2 contamination. MS2, a bacteriophage, infects bacteria like E. coli but is harmless to humans. Its presence, however, indicates that the spice jars in our kitchens are likely contaminated with more dangerous bacteria. Contamination typically happens when we handle spice jars while preparing raw meat. Even a single instance of forgetting to wash hands after cutting chicken can result in contaminated spice jars and potential spread to other surfaces.
Preventing Cross-Contamination in the Kitchen
To avoid cross-contaminating your spice jars, frequent and thorough hand washing is essential, especially immediately after handling raw meat or other raw foods like eggs and vegetables. Clean utensils and workspaces also play a crucial role. Remember, bacteria can transfer from raw meat to countertops, cutting boards, and any other surfaces involved in meal prep. Spice jars placed on contaminated countertops can easily become tainted. Disinfect surfaces and spice jar exteriors with ethyl alcohol, methyl alcohol, or hydrogen peroxide, as recommended by the CDC to denature pathogens effectively.
Regular Maintenance for Safety
Aside from disinfecting, regularly cleaning your spice cabinet and inspecting each jar is a good practice. This allows you to give each jar a quick wipe-down and check for expired spices or cracked jars. This not only helps maintain hygiene but also ensures your spices are fresh and safe to use.
Comparing Contamination Rates of Kitchen Tools
Spice jar contamination rates are notably higher than other kitchen tools. Cutting boards, with an average contamination rate of 12.7%, and trash can lids follow spice jars. Conversely, refrigerator handles and inner sink spaces have contamination rates below 10%, making them statistically less concerning. Nevertheless, keeping all kitchen surfaces and tools clean is vital in reducing health risks.
