Flies, whether big or small, can become a real problem. And, even if they’re not an actual problem, these flying creatures can simply be annoying.
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Moreover, flies have a tendency to put themselves in places that aren’t the cleanest. For instance, we often notice fruit flies when something is rotting. Bigger flies, on the other hand, often hang around waste. None of it is really appealing.
Therefore, we understand that when one of those insects lands in your drink the first thing you want to do is throw it away. But wait! Is that the right thing to do?
Flies carry germs
We do have to tell you the truth. Flies carry germs and bacteria. They move them as they travel from different places, just like we do. According to Science Alert, these bacteria include ‘E coli, Listeria, Shigella, and Salmonella’ which can all cause serious infections.
So, with that knowledge we understand that when a fly lands into your glass of wine on a nice summer day, your first instinct is to get rid of both the fly and the drink.
But don’t. Or at least, you don’t need to get rid of the drink.
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Science tells you that your wine is safe
Studies explain that wine, if that is what you’re choosing to drink, typically has ‘between 8 percent and 14 percent ethanol and has a pH of around 4 or 5.’
Moreover, alcohol in general is known to restrict the proliferation of germs and bacteria. That is why alcohol can be stored over a longer period of time.
Several studies explain the fact that, the mix of alcohol and bodily acid can kill most bacteria, including E coli and Salmonella. Of course, the amount of bacteria and germs the fly transmitted matters but as most wines are ‘naturally antibacterial’ germs get destroyed quicker.
This means that you can safely consume your wine after removing the fly.
The chilled drink
An important factor that science also uncovers is the fact that the temperature of your drink matters in the development of germs and bacteria after a fly landed in it.
Indeed, Science Alert writes that when bacteria enters a cold drink it ends up shocking ‘their metabolism so profoundly it stops them growing.’ So, even a chilled soft drink can be safe after a fly finds its way there.
Read more: Vomiting and other signs of salmonella to be aware of as chicken products get recalled
Sources:
Science Alert: If a Fly Lands in Your Drink, Should You Still Drink It?
