Does the 5 second rule actually exist?
The 5-second rule is a popular belief that food that fell on the floor can be safely eaten if it’s picked up within 5 seconds. However, this rule is not based on reliable scientific evidence. According to a study published in Applied and Environmental Microbiology, the transfer of bacteria from surface to food depends on various factors, such as the type of food, the type of surface and the contact time. Therefore, there is no fixed time limit that guarantees the safety of food that fell on the floor. It’s better to avoid eating food contaminated by dirt or germs to prevent illness.