Dishwashing sponges are ubiquitous, particularly in Indian households. But how safe are they? Kitchen sponges, a staple in many kitchens, may not be as sanitary as one might hope. Recent research from Norway reveals that these common cleaning tools can be a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. Trond Møretrø, a research scientist at Nofima, the Norwegian food research institute, highlights the alarming findings of this study. According to Møretrø, sponges can harbour an astonishing number of bacteria—more than there are people on the planet.Sponges v/s BrushesThe study, published in the Journal of Applied Science, points out that sponges are more prone to bacterial growth than brushes. This is because sponges remain damp throughout daily use, creating an ideal environment for bacteria like Salmonella to thrive. Unlike brushes, which have a structure that allows them to dry out more quickly, sponges retain moisture and food residues, both of which feed bacterial growth.Møretrø notes that while many bacteria found in sponges are harmless, the potential for harmful bacteria, such as Salmonella, to spread from sponges to hands, kitchen surfaces, and equipment poses a significant health risk. The research also indicates that regular replacement of sponges is crucial, as it's nearly impossible to prevent bacterial growth in a sponge that isn’t replaced daily.In contrast to brushes, which may be easier to sanitize due to their ability to dry out, sponges’ persistent dampness makes them a continuous hazard. The findings from this study underscore the importance of regularly replacing kitchen sponges and adopting rigorous cleaning practices to reduce the risk of bacterial contamination in the kitchen.