Concerns About Infection Risks from Handling Raw Foods and Utensils

Is there a concern for infection?

Hello, Doctor.
I would like to ask:
1.
When washing utensils that have come into contact with raw egg, is there a concern for bacteria or infection? (I have a small cut on my hand, and although I used hand soap to wash, I'm not sure if it was cleaned thoroughly.)
2.
After handling raw chicken while cooking, I touched my phone and only washed my hands and used alcohol wipes afterward.
Is there a concern for parasites or infection? (I am worried that I might have inadvertently transferred bacteria from the raw food to different places or objects.
Although I disinfected various surfaces afterward with alcohol, I still have concerns about areas I may not have noticed or cleaned properly.)
Thank you for your assistance!

QQ, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/02/14

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, the two situations you mentioned should not lead to infection as long as proper hand hygiene is practiced.
Thank you for your question.

Reply Date: 2023/02/14

More Info

When it comes to handling raw foods and the associated risks of infection, it’s essential to understand the proper hygiene practices to minimize any potential health threats. Let’s address your concerns regarding the cleaning of utensils and the handling of raw chicken.

1. Cleaning Utensils with Egg Residue: When you wash utensils that have come into contact with raw egg, there is indeed a risk of bacterial contamination, primarily from Salmonella, which is commonly associated with raw eggs. If you have a small wound on your hand, it is wise to be particularly cautious. While washing your hands with soap and water is a crucial first step, it is equally important to ensure that the utensils are cleaned thoroughly. Use hot, soapy water to wash the utensils, and consider using a scrub brush to remove any residual egg. After cleaning, rinse the utensils well and allow them to air dry or dry them with a clean towel. If you are still concerned about the cleanliness, you can also sanitize the utensils using a solution of one tablespoon of unscented liquid chlorine bleach in one gallon of water, allowing them to soak for a few minutes before rinsing again.

2. Handling Raw Chicken and Touching Your Phone: The concern about transferring bacteria from raw chicken to your phone and subsequently to other surfaces is valid. Raw chicken can harbor harmful bacteria such as Campylobacter and Salmonella. If you touched your phone after handling raw chicken without washing your hands first, there is a risk of contaminating your phone and any surfaces you touch afterward. However, washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling raw chicken is the best way to mitigate this risk. Using alcohol wipes on your phone is a good practice, as alcohol can effectively kill many types of bacteria and viruses. It’s also advisable to regularly disinfect frequently touched surfaces in your home, especially after handling raw foods.

In both scenarios, the key takeaway is the importance of hand hygiene. Washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after handling raw foods is crucial. If soap and water are not available, using hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol can be an effective alternative.
Additionally, it’s important to be mindful of cross-contamination. Always use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw meats and other foods to prevent the transfer of bacteria. If you are cooking in a kitchen where raw foods are handled, ensure that surfaces are cleaned and sanitized regularly.

In summary, while there are risks associated with handling raw foods, following proper hygiene practices can significantly reduce the likelihood of infection. Always prioritize handwashing, use separate utensils for raw and cooked foods, and maintain a clean cooking environment to ensure food safety. If you have any further concerns or if you notice any signs of infection, such as redness or swelling around your wound, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

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