Researchers analyze samples from microwaves and discover various infectious bacteria species that may pose a threat to human health.
A research team from Darwin Bioprospecting Excellence SL, a startup based in Paterna, Spain, found radiation-resistant bacteria living inside microwaves, according to Mail on August 8. Alarmingly, some strains are highly dangerous to humans, the research team reported. “Some species found in household microwaves, such as Klebsiella, Enterococcus, and Aeromonas, can threaten human health,” said Daniel Torrent, co-author of the study.
The research team advises regular cleaning of microwaves to prevent bacterial growth. (Photo: Chost Bear).
Previous studies have discovered bacteria living in various strange environments, including oil spills at sea, abandoned industrial sites, and even inside the International Space Station. However, until now, it was unclear what types of bacteria could be found in microwaves. In the study, scientists collected bacterial samples from 10 microwaves, including 10 from home kitchens, 10 from communal spaces like self-service restaurants, and 10 from scientific laboratories.
The analysis revealed 747 different bacterial strains belonging to 25 bacterial phyla. However, these strains varied significantly between locations. Household microwaves had a greater variety of microorganisms adapted to human activities, similar to kitchen surfaces, while laboratory microwaves harbored bacteria with better radiation resistance, according to Torrent.
In home kitchens, the primary bacterial strains included: Acinetobacter, Bhargavaea, Brevibacterium, Brevundimonas, Dermacoccus, Klebsiella, Pantoea, Pseudoxanthomonas, and Rhizobium. Strains such as Arthrobacter, Enterobacter, Janibacter, Methylobacterium, Neobacillus, Nocardioides, Novosphingobium, Paenibacillus, Peribacillus, Planococcus, Rothia, Sporosarcina, and Terribacillus were only found in communal microwaves.
Notably, some bacteria, including Klebsiella, Enterococcus, and Aeromonas, can be dangerous to humans. Klebsiella can cause various infections such as pneumonia, bacteremia, wound or surgical site infections, and meningitis. Meanwhile, Enterococcus can lead to a range of diseases, including urinary tract infections, bacteremia, and wound infections. Lastly, Aeromonas is associated with gastrointestinal infections, kidney disease, cellulitis, and meningitis.
Based on their findings, the research team urges everyone to ensure regular and thorough cleaning of their microwaves. “We recommend regularly disinfecting microwaves with diluted bleach solutions or readily available disinfectant sprays. Additionally, it is essential to wipe the interior surfaces with a damp cloth after each use to remove residue and clean up spills immediately to prevent bacterial growth,” Torrent stated.
