Valencia: Most of us use the microwave several times a day, whether it’s to freshen up food or heat up a cup of cold tea. However, a new study conducted recently will make us think twice before using the microwave.
Researchers from Spain’s start-up Darwin Bioprospecting Excellence SL have discovered radiation-resistant microbes living inside microwaves in a study.
Worryingly, according to the team, several variants of the microbes can prove lethal to humans.
Some types of microbes found in homes (such as Klebsiella, Enterococcus and Aeromonas) may pose risks to human health, said Daniel Torrent, one of the authors of the study.
Past studies have revealed that microbes survive in a number of strange habitats, including oil spills in the ocean, industrial brownfields, and even the International Space Station.
But until now, it wasn’t clear what bacteria could be found inside microwaves.
In the study, the team of researchers collected samples of microbes from 30 microwaves (10 used in home kitchens, 10 in cafeteria-like spaces, and 10 in scientific laboratories).
Analysis of the samples revealed 747 different genera of microbes belonging to 25 similar bacterial phyla.
