Frequent UTIs? Your Kitchen Habits Could Be To Blame, Warn Experts

Researchers found 20% of UTI-causing E. coli strains come from animals, with low-income areas at higher risk. (News18 Hindi)

A recent study has uncovered a surprising link between common kitchen practices and urinary tract infections (UTIs), challenging the long-held view that UTIs are solely a personal hygiene issue.

Published in the journal Mbio, the study, led by microbiologist Lance Price of George Washington University, reveals that certain food-handling habits may increase the risk of contracting UTIs. “For years, UTIs were largely considered a personal health problem. Our findings suggest they are also a food safety concern,” Price said.

The research points to raw meat, particularly poultry, as a potential reservoir for bacteria responsible for UTIs. The association was notably higher in low-income areas, where residents were found to have a 60% greater risk of foodborne UTIs.

Over 5,700 E. coli samples, collected between 2017 and 2021 from both UTI patients and retail meat, were analysed by GW bioinformatician Maliha Aziz and her team. Genomic studies indicated that about 20% of E. coli causing UTIs were strains originating from animals, highlighting a previously underappreciated route of infection.

Turkey Tops the Risk List

Poultry products, and turkey meat in particular, were identified as the most contaminated, suggesting they carry the highest risk of infection. Contamination can easily spread through unwashed hands, utensils, and kitchen surfaces after handling raw meat.

Safe Handling Practices

Experts recommend several precautions to reduce risk:

• Seal meat and poultry properly at purchase.
• Prepare meat last during meal preparation.
• Use a separate chopping board for raw meat.
• Avoid washing raw meat, as this can spread bacteria.
• Wash hands thoroughly with soap for at least 20 seconds after contact.
• Cook meat to an internal temperature of 63-74 degrees Celsius.

Price emphasised that the findings could inform new strategies to prevent UTIs, particularly in communities already facing high disease burdens.