According to Charles Gerba, microbiologist at the University of Arizona in the US there are many avenues through which microbes are piggybacking on produce without the buyer knowing it.
The germ exposure is highest in meat containers where they breed fast.
Among things that host harmful germs are shopping cart handles, said Gerba.
"It may be recalled that bulk of the germs is transmitted through hands during the purchase of grocery at the shopping cart handles, where too much of bacteria load up from the touch of different people," he said.
Fresh produce section often doubles up as a hub of germs as an easy point of entry for germs into handles.
"I don't know anyone who buys produce without squeezing or touching it," Gerba was quoted as saying by the 'Tech Times'.
Meat, poultry, or seafood should be bought only if the packaging is fault free. If packaging is torn, it is good to forego the item as outlets invite germs, Gerba said.
Disclaimer: No Business Standard Journalist was involved in creation of this content
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
