Whether it’s on the way to a meeting or after the gym, many of us eat in our cars without thinking twice about it.
But a new warning might encourage you to wait until you get home before tucking in.
Doctors have raised fresh concerns about the health implications of eating in your car.
Dr Shivram Singh, a health expert at WINIT Clinic, warns that that the practice is ‘unsanitary’, and can even increase your risk of food poisoning.
‘Eating or storing food in a car can often result in spills and crumbs, which may harbour bacteria, mould, or attract 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 make it a point to 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 do need to eat in them.
Whether it’s on the way to a meeting or after the gym, many of us eat in our cars without thinking twice about it. But a new warning might encourage you to wait until you get home before tucking in (stock image)
Dr Singh explains that eating in your car increases your risk of foodborne illnesses.
‘Storing and eating food in your vehicle can lead to an increase of bacteria growth, which can result in many health implications,’ he explained.
‘Interiors of cars can be awfully hot during the summer and really cold during the winter, and both these excessive conditions bring negative health implications.
‘There are some bacteria, such as Salmonella and Listeria, whose ideal temperature of growth falls in the 40°F-140°F range typically found in a normal enclosed automobile.
‘This increases the risk of foodborne illnesses.’
Previous studies have shown that there are several areas in cars with high bacterial counts.
Dr Gareth Nye, a lecturer in medical science from the University of Chester, explained: ‘The highest was the car boot, which had nearly 1,500 different bacteria identified.
‘The driver’s seat, gear stick, dashboard and steering wheel all carry significant bacterial loads.
Dr Shivram Singh, a health expert at WINIT Clinic, warns that that eating in your car is ‘unsanitary’, and can even increase your risk of food poisoning (stock image)
‘However, this study was done in cars up for sale, and I imagine bacterial numbers would be much higher in regularly used cars.’
According to the expert, the most common bacteria found lurking in cars is E.coli, which lives in our intestines.
‘E. Coli is harmless; however, in some cases, it may result in food poisoning,’ Dr Nye said.
However, several other strains could also be lurking in your vehicle, according to the expert.
He added: ‘A strain of Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus are also the most common bacterias of most car surfaces tested.’
Based on the findings, the experts say that you should regularly give your car a decent clean – particularly 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 mould build up in your car, as well as preventing illnesses.
‘Maintaining regular car cleaning is vital, especially after eating.
‘You should always adequately dispose of any rubbish after eating in your car, using a portable vacuum cleaner, antimicrobial wipes, and odour-neutralising sprays can help drivers maintain a clean and safe driving environment.’
