Eating in Cars Linked to Food Poisoning

Written by Olivia Richardson: 14-July-2010

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When they said "Pick your poison", you hardly thought of eating in the car.

But new research from the UK has shown that chowing down in your ride is linked to food poisoning.

Scientists took swabs from inside family cars and found staphylococcus (bacteria that causes food poisoning) on gear sticks, door handles, stereo buttons and steering wheels – areas drivers or passengers are likely to touch before eating.

70% of drivers in a survey for UK car accessories company Halfords admitted to eating or drinking in the car.

More than 50% also said they leave empty food packages in their car overnight or longer, which is just asking for trouble.

"People would be horrified at the prospect of eating from a toilet seat, however they ought to be aware that eating from a contaminated car dashboard may represent the same health hazards," Dr Anthony Hilton, a reader in microbiology at Aston University, told the Daily Mail (UK).
"It is important ... for people to ensure they do not leave food debris in their cars, as bacteria such as staphylococcus and bacillus cereus can thrive on even tiny crumbs.

"Also, if you have animals in your car, they can contribute to the presence of harmful micro-organisms."

Tip

It's a good idea to carry some antibacterial hand solution with you to use before eating in your car, or for even while eating out and about. Most claim to bust 99.99% of germs.

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