Doctors are increasingly concerned about the widespread habit of drivers snacking behind the wheel. According to medical professionals, this practice should be avoided.
Dr. Sham Singh, a health expert at the WINIT clinic in the U.S., warned that eating in the car is unsanitary and can lead to food poisoning at the very least.
“Eating and storing food in a vehicle typically results in stains and crumbs, which can become breeding grounds for bacteria and mold if the interior isn’t thoroughly cleaned,” the expert cautioned.
In his view, “drivers should eat in a controlled environment where they can better appreciate the taste of their food” and where proper food storage conditions are maintained.
According to Dr. Singh, dining in a car increases the risk of foodborne illnesses.
“Storing and consuming food in a vehicle can lead to bacterial growth, which in turn can cause numerous health issues. Car interiors can get extremely hot in the summer and very cold in the winter. There are bacteria like Salmonella and Listeria, which thrive at temperatures ranging from 40 to 140 °F, a typical range for a closed vehicle,” he explained.
High-Risk Areas
Research has shown that there are several high-risk areas in cars where bacteria tend to accumulate, according to the Daily Mail.
Dr. Gareth Nye, a medical science lecturer at Chester University in the UK, stated, “The highest concentration of bacteria was found in the trunk of the car, where around 1,500 different types were identified.”
Bacteria also thrive in large numbers on the driver’s seat, gear shift, dashboard, and steering wheel. However, as Dr. Nye noted, “this study was conducted on cars that were up for sale, so it’s reasonable to assume that the bacterial count would be significantly higher in vehicles that are regularly used.”
The expert reported that the most common bacterium found in cars is E. coli, which can lead to food poisoning. However, there are other dangerous microorganisms lurking in vehicles.
“Strains of Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus are also common bacteria found on most tested surfaces in cars,” the doctor added.
What to Do?
But if snacking in the car is unavoidable, medical professionals urge drivers to clean their vehicles regularly and thoroughly.
Kit Goos, a British automotive expert, asserts, “You should always properly dispose of any trash after eating in the car. Using a portable vacuum, antimicrobial wipes, and odor-neutralizing sprays can help drivers maintain a clean driving environment.” He emphasized that maintaining hygiene in the car is crucial for disease prevention.