Nowadays, more and more restaurants have abandoned tablecloths in the name of modernity and ecology. However, this trend could constitute a real risk to our healthaccording to the warnings of Dr. Frédéric Saldmann, cardiologist and nutritionist, who spoke on RTL about a survey carried out in collaboration with researchers from thePasteur Institute of Lille.
This study aimed to analyze the “microbiological loads” present on 46 tables in Parisian restaurants during a service. The results are alarming: the tables turned out to be a real bacteriological culture broth.
“On every second table, we found fecal germs, and on 20% of the tables, they were present in high concentrations”
Dr. Saldmann explains that simply cleaning the table with a sponge is not enough to ensure its cleanliness. In reality, the surface of a restaurant table is constantly exposed to tiny particles, such as bacteria, viruses and food residues. These contaminants can pass from the table to your plate, and subsequently, to your digestive system. Dr. Saldmann informs that “On every second table, we found fecal germs, and on 20% of the tables, they were present in high concentrations. By placing bread and cutlery directly on the table, fecal germs end up in the mouth of another guest.”
It’s essential to know that even though servers clean tables, they don’t necessarily disinfect every nook and cranny after each customer, potentially exposing subsequent ones to germs.
What are the potential health risks?
Bacteria found on restaurant tables are enterobacteriain other words, fecal bacteria from the digestive tract. They are responsible for around a third of cases of gastroenteritis, thus contributing to the spread of this disease.
What precautions should you take?
To minimize the risks associated with the absence of tablecloths in a restaurant, the doctor shares some measures you can adopt:
– Choose restaurants that use paper or fabric tablecloths. If there are no tablecloths, you can place a shot of hydroalcoholic gel on the table.
– Ask for paper napkins that you can place on the table to create a barrier additional space between your dishes and the table surface.
– See to do not let your cutlery come into direct contact with the table. It is best to place them on your plate. Finally, don’t forget to wash your hands.
Although theabsence of tablecloths does not necessarily mean an unsanitary dining experience, it is essential to be aware of potential health risks and take appropriate precautions when eating. In the end, the cleanliness of the table plays a major role in the Food Safety and contributes to your well-being when you go out to restaurants.
Sources: Are restaurant tables a breeding ground for microbes?rtl.fr
