Ants Contaminated Food – Are You Eating Ants Contaminated Food?
WouterWhether you are eating ants contaminated food or not, you should be aware of their potential to transfer pathogens and bacteria to you. If you are not careful, you could be unknowingly ingesting bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens, which could cause disease.
In order to determine the perception of consumers regarding the potential of ants to transfer pathogens to food, a survey questionnaire was formulated and mailed to a sample of consumers. The questionnaire was designed for a general audience of both genders.
The survey questionnaire aimed to determine whether consumers were aware of the potential of ants to transfer pathogens and bacteria to food. It also sought to assess consumer knowledge and perceptions about ants in the domestic kitchen.
The survey questionnaire was mailed to a sample of 100 consumers, randomly chosen to represent a variety of backgrounds. Information about the survey was kept confidential. The results were used for statistical purposes.
Using bait traps, sterile sugar was set as a non-toxic attractant. Ants were then collected and placed in tubes, which were left on kitchen countertops, windowsills, and bread-storage areas. They were then chilled for one hour at four degrees Celsius. They were then subjected to microbiological analyses.
Pathogens were found on the ants, including bacteria and yeasts. Interestingly, Bacillus spp. was found to be a major ant pathogen. It is suspected that these bacteria could be present in the ant’s mandibles. Ants are not known to cause serious health problems, but their presence in food can be a concern.
