A recent comparative study of disposable and reusable utensils (cups, plates and flatware) used in 21 foodservice operations in Fairfax County, Va., showed that single service articles are microbiologically safer than reusables. The probability of microbial contamination was found to be 50% greater with the reusables than with disposable items used in the same establishments. Fifteen percent of the reusable utensils had microbiological counts that exceeded the maximum recommended level ofl 00 colonies per utensil. E. coli was detected on reusable utensils in one-third of the test sites. The average total plate count for disposable items was two colonies per item; for reusables, the mean was 410. Sanitation inspections indicated that improper maintenance of dishwashing equipment, increased handling of reusables and poor storage practices probably accounted for the difference in microbial quality. Nearly identical results from two earlier surveys suggest that, wherever this test is conducted, single service utensils will be found more sanitary than reusables.
The Journal of Environmental Health (JEH) is published 10 times per year by the National Environmental Health Association and keeps readers up-to-date on current issues, new research, useful products and services, and employment opportunities. As the only direct link to the complete spectrum of environmental health topics, the JEH reaches more than 20,000 professionals working to solve problems in areas such as: air quality drinking water food safety and protection hazardous materials/toxic substances management institutional environmental health occupational safety and health terrorism and all-hazards preparedness vector control wastewater management water pollution control/water quality
NEHA currently serves 5,000 members to advance the environmental health and protection professional for the purpose of providing a healthful environment for all. Professionals who earn a Registered Environmental Health Specialist/Registered Sanitarian credential from NEHA are recognized as having achieved an established standard of excellence. These environmental health professionals master a body of knowledge (which is verified by examination), and acquire sufficient experience to satisfactorily perform work responsibilities in the environmental health field. In addition to maintaining high standards of practice and testing for its credentialing programs, NEHA provides training and resources for continuing education through online courses and an online bookstore; holds an annual conference; fosters networking and career growth; and publishes the widely-respected peer-reviewed Journal of Environmental Health.
This item is part of a JSTOR Collection.
For terms and use, please refer to our
Journal of Environmental Health
© 1990 National Environmental Health Association (NEHA)