Doctors reveal the disgusting reason why you should NEVER eat in your car
Whether on the way to a meeting or after exercise, many of us eat in the car without thinking about it.
But a new warning may prompt you to wait until you get home before going to sleep.
Doctors have raised new concerns about the health consequences of eating in the car.
Dr. Shivram Singh, a health expert at WINIT Clinic, warns that this practice is “unhygienic” and can even increase the risk of food poisoning.
“Eating or storing food in a car can often lead to spills and crumbs, which can harbor bacteria, mold or pests if not cleaned thoroughly,” he warned.
‘This can create an unsanitary environment, not only for eating in, but also for maintaining good health and hygiene.
‘Drivers should always ensure they eat their meals in a controlled environment, where they can better appreciate their food and maintain proper storage conditions for leftovers or snacks.’
Based on the findings, experts are urging people to thoroughly clean their cars if they have to eat in them.
Whether on the way to a meeting or after exercise, many of us eat in the car without thinking about it. But a new warning could encourage you to wait until you get home before going to sleep (stock image)
Dr. Singh explains that eating in the car increases the risk of foodborne illness.
“Storing and eating food in your vehicle can lead to an increase in bacterial growth, which can have many health consequences,” he explained.
‘Car interiors can be terribly hot in summer and very cold in winter, and both of these excessive conditions have negative health consequences.
“There are some bacteria, such as Salmonella and Listeria, whose ideal growth temperature is between 40°F and 140°F, which is typically found in a normal enclosed car.
‘This increases the risk of foodborne illness.’
Previous research has shown that there are several places in cars with a high bacterial count.
Dr. Gareth Nye, a lecturer in medical sciences at the University of Chester, explained: ‘The highest was the trunk, in which almost 1,500 different bacteria were identified.
‘The driver’s seat, gear lever, dashboard and steering wheel all carry a significant bacterial load.
Dr. Shivram Singh, a health expert at the WINIT Clinic, warns that eating in the car is ‘unhygienic’ and can even increase the risk of food poisoning (stock image)
‘However, this study was carried out in cars that were for sale, and I would imagine that bacteria counts would be much higher in regularly used cars.’
According to the expert, the most common bacteria lurking in cars is E.coli, which lives in our intestines.
‘E. Coli is harmless; however, in some cases it can lead to food poisoning,” said Dr. Nye.
However, according to the expert, other species could also be lurking in your vehicle.
He added: ‘A strain of Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus are also the most common bacteria on most car surfaces tested.’
Based on the findings, the experts say you should give your car a proper cleaning regularly, especially if you eat in it.
Keith Hawes, director at Nationwide Vehicle Contracts, said: ‘Ensuring your vehicle is kept in a hygienic condition is essential to prevent mold developing in your car, but also to prevent illness.
‘Cleaning the car regularly is essential, especially after meals.
‘You should always dispose of waste properly after eating in your car. Using a portable vacuum cleaner, antimicrobial wipes and odor neutralizing sprays can help drivers maintain a clean and safe driving environment.”