Can Shopping Cart Use Get You Sick?

Many grocery stores now offer disinfecting wipes near their shopping cart and basket areas, but not everyone uses them. In this article, we'll explore whether using a shopping cart can indeed get you sick, and discuss the importance of hygiene in grocery stores.

High Bacterial Levels on Shopping Carts

A study conducted by Utah State University Extension's Grand County director, Michael Johnson, reveals that shopping carts and baskets can harbor high levels of bacteria—such as Campylobacter, salmonella, and E. coli.1

According to Dr. Charles Gerba of the University of Arizona, the amount of bacteria found on these surfaces is significantly higher than in public restrooms, a concerning thought considering how often restrooms are cleaned.

The University of Arizona's studies also show that these bacteria can survive on hard surfaces for up to eight hours. This means that people who touch shopping carts while they're still contaminated with viruses or bacteria can potentially spread these pathogens to themselves or others.

Contamination from Colds and Flu

The Centers for Disease Control notes that cold and flu viruses can survive on hard surfaces for two to eight hours. This raises the question: how many times are shopping carts touched within eight hours? And how many people shop with colds or the flu, potentially spreading their germs?

Michael Johnson suggests that while the risk of catching a cold or the flu from a shopping cart may seem low, being proactive with hygiene practices can't hurt. He recommends cleaning the handles and seats of shopping carts with disinfecting wipes to reduce the risk of contamination.

Regular Cleaning Regimes in Stores

Some U.S. grocery stores have implemented regular cleaning routines for shopping carts to minimize bacterial levels. However, this is not a universal practice. Individuals can take matters into their own hands by using personal cleaning supplies, such as disinfecting wipes, to clean shopping carts.

Michael Johnson advises shoppers to avoid touching their face after potentially contaminated surfaces and to wash their hands thoroughly or use hand sanitizer.

Proactive Steps and Hygiene Practices

While using a shopping cart does come with some risk, taking proactive steps towards hygiene can significantly reduce this risk. Here are a few tips:

Wipe down the shopping cart handles with disinfecting wipes. Clean the seats on shopping carts if they are touched. Avoid touching your face until you can wash your hands thoroughly. If hand washing is not possible, use hand sanitizer.

By practicing these simple steps, you can ensure a safer and cleaner shopping experience.