Debunking Myths: The Yummy or Yucky Truth Behind the Five Second Rule

Factors Affecting Food Contamination

As mentioned, the time factor isn't the primary determinant of food safety when dropped. Instead, factors like the type of food and the level of bacteria on the floor significantly influence how quickly food gets contaminated. Moist food attracts more bacteria than dry food, while a bacteria-infested area contaminates food instantaneously. Additionally, the type of surface plays into how bacteria get transferred: carpet, for example, transfers fewer bacteria to food than tile or steel.