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Imagine this: It's a hot day, you take a can of your preferred beverage, open the tab, and have a cooling sip directly from the can. Sounds familiar? This is the daily routine of millions, as it is easy, convenient, and fast. But have you ever thought about what could be waiting on that can's surface? Recent studies and expert warnings show that this apparently innocuous action may be exposing you to more than merely your drink. Before you crack open your next can, let's find out what science and doctors have to say regarding the concealed dangers of drinking straight from cans.
The Hidden Dangers of Cans
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Dr Ravi K Gupta, Haematologist-Oncology, Larkin Health System, Florida, warns, “If you take out a can and drink it straight from the bottle, then you are making a huge mistake.” His concern is echoed by several studies and health experts who highlight the risks associated with drinking straight from cans.
Why Are Cans Risky?
Exposure to Contaminants: Cans are stored in warehouses, transported in trucks, and displayed on shop shelves. During this journey, they are exposed to dust, dirt, and harmful germs. Dr Gupta emphasises, “These cans are kept open in warehouses, trucks, and shops and have nothing to do with their cleanliness. Dust, dirt, and harmful germs settle on the upper surface. Not just germs, these cans are exposed to rats and cockroaches. They have a very high exposure in storage areas.”
- Bacterial Contamination: Studies have found that the rim of cans can harbour saliva-borne and faecal bacteria, which can easily transfer to your mouth when you drink directly from the can.
- Lack of Sanitisation: Beverage cans are rarely sanitised before reaching consumers, increasing the risk of infection.
What Does Science Say?
A study published on PubMed compared the upper surfaces of canned beverages from vending machines and revealed a variety of bacteria, such as Flavobacterium, Pseudomonas, Bacillus, Staphylococcus, Klebsiella, and even moulds and yeasts. Some of these bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumoniae, can cause infections in humans. The overall bacterial load varied from fewer than 10 to more than 32,000 organisms per square inch, with the highest levels on Enterobacteriaceae-dominated cans.
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- Leptospirosis: You can get this bacterial infection from dirty cans, particularly if contaminated with rodent urine.
- Foodborne Illnesses: Bacteria such as E. coli, Staphylococcus, and Klebsiella can lead to diarrhoea, respiratory disease, and even pneumonia.
- Other Infections: Pathogens at the top of cans can also be a hazard, particularly to those with compromised immune systems.
Simple Steps to Safeguard Yourself
- Wash the Can: Rinse off the top of the can using water, or wipe it clean using a fresh, damp cloth before consumption.
- Use a Straw or Pour into a Glass: Keep your contact with the rim at a minimum by using a straw or pouring the drink into a clean glass.
- Inspect for Damages: Throw or recycle cans which are dented, rusty or dirty.
Conclusion
Drinking straight from a can might be quick and easy, but it’s important to remember that the surface of the can can carry dirt and germs picked up during storage and transport. These invisible contaminants could potentially cause health issues if they enter your body. Taking a simple step like rinsing the can or wiping its rim before drinking can make a big difference in keeping you safe and healthy.