We’ve all heard the saying, “Don’t eat that, a fly landed on it!” Maybe you’ve even heard the rumor that flies throw up every time they touch your food. While the exact saying might be a bit off, the underlying concern is valid. Flies landing on your food is more than just a nuisance; it’s a potential health hazard you might be underestimating.
It turns out, your initial disgust isn’t misplaced. Flies don’t chew their food. Instead, they vomit digestive enzymes onto solid food to liquefy it, essentially pre-digesting it externally so they can slurp it up. Yes, you read that right – vomit. And that’s just the beginning of what they leave behind.
When we think of germ-spreading pests, cockroaches often come to mind. However, surprisingly, flies are actually twice as likely to spread germs than cockroaches. While cockroaches are certainly unhygienic, flies frequently feast on much filthier things, including feces. This diet means flies pick up a cocktail of bacteria and viruses on their bodies and legs. So, when a fly lands on your food, it’s transferring all that directly onto what you’re about to eat.
You might think a quick fly visit is no big deal. After all, a survey indicated that only a small percentage of people would actually discard food a fly landed on. However, even a brief landing – we’re talking fractions of a second – is enough time for bacteria to transfer from the fly to your food. This rapid contamination is a significant concern for food safety.
The good news? At least they aren’t laying eggs on your food during these fleeting visits. While the thought of fly eggs hatching in your meal is certainly stomach-churning, the immediate risk comes from the bacteria and pathogens they carry.
So, the next time a fly decides to sample your meal, remember it’s not just being rude; it’s potentially depositing a load of germs and pre-digested vomit. While we can be thankful they aren’t laying eggs in seconds, it’s definitely a good reminder to keep food covered and practice good food hygiene, especially during fly season. Enjoy your summer meals, but maybe keep a fly swatter handy!
