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Study Finds Soda Fountain Drinks Contain Bacteria Resistant to Antibiotics

Authors of a new study published in this month's issue of International Journal of Food Microbiology believe that, "Soda fountain machines may harbor persistent communities of potentially pathogenic microorganisms, which may contribute to episodic gastric distress in the general population and could pose a more significant health risk to immune-compromised individuals."

Researchers at Hollins University and Virginia Western Community College in Roanoke, VA tested ninety beverage samples of sugar sodas, diet sodas and water obtained from 20 self-service and 10 personnel-dispensed soda fountains in the Roanoke area for microbial contamination.

They found that 48% of the beverage samples analyzed contained Coliform bacteria, an indicator of insanitary conditions and potentially feces. More than 11% on beverage samples contained Escherichia coli and over 17% contained Chryseobacterium meningosepticum. Researchers also found Klebsiella, Staphylococcus, Stenotrophomonas, Candida, and Serratia in the beverage samples. When tested, most of the identified bacteria in the beverage samples showed resistance to one or more of 11 different antibiotics.

"We can't have that in our drinking supply," said Renee D. Godard, Professor of Biology and Environmental Studies at Hollins University and co-author of the study. "But they're coming out of these soda fountain machines."

The cause of these contaminations is unknown, but may be attributed to unsanitary user contact with the beverage dispensers or the improper/infrequent cleaning, flushing and sanitizing of the beverage machines.

There were no illnesses linked to the contaminated beverages in the Roanoke area during the time of the study. Although there has not been a severe outbreak of illnesses associated with a soda fountain in about ten years, episodes of gastrointestinal illness often go unreported. Ten years ago, bacteria had not developed the resistance to antibiotics that is seen today.

"These findings have important public health implications and signal the need for regulations enforcing hygienic practices associated with these beverage dispensers," said researchers in the study.

If you or a family member has suffered an injury due to someone else's negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. Call Napoli Bern Ripka LLP at 888-529-4669, we have the experience and knowledge needed to help you file a personal injury claim and see it through to its resolution. Our experienced attorneys can answer your questions and ease your concerns so that you can concentrate on healing from your injury or illness.