The next time you have water or iced tea in a restaurant, you might want to pass on the lemon.
A recent study found that 2 out of 3 lemon wedges tested in restaurants were covered in a total of 25 different types of bacteria, including fecal bacteria. Apparently many restaurant workers fail to wash their hands after going to the restroom. They then handle the lemons and the bacteria is left on the lemon peel, which goes onto your glass rim. Then you handle it to squeeze the lemon into your drink, and the bacteria goes into your drink as well as on your hands.
Most people's bodies can handle the bacteria, but those with compromised immune systems, the elderly and very young need to be especially careful as this bacteria can make you very ill.
For more information on the lemon study, CLICK HERE.
