"Never Wash Raw Chicken Under Running Water"...Microscope Reveals Bacteria, Handle With Caution

Even the US Department of Agriculture Advises: "Do Not Wash Raw Chicken"
Bacteria Eliminated by Cooking at 75°C or Higher for at Least One Minute

Raw chicken. Photo by Asia Economy DB

Many people believe that washing raw chicken under running water is hygienic, but this actually increases the risk of bacterial contamination through cross-contamination, so caution is advised.

On April 21, 'Pocketsaengmul,' a biology teacher and YouTuber who creates science experiment content, uploaded a video to his channel showing bacteria observed after washing raw chicken under running water. He washed purchased raw chicken under running water and then observed it under a microscope.

At 100x magnification, bacteria were not clearly visible, but when switched to dark field observation, bacterial movement could be seen. At 400x magnification, numerous bacteria suspected to be Salmonella, which causes food poisoning, were observed.

After washing raw chicken, the water was observed under a microscope at 400x magnification, revealing numerous bacteria. Pocketsaengmul YouTube

Although studies advising against washing raw chicken under running water have been consistently published, public awareness has been slow to change. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Department of Agriculture also warn that during the process of washing raw chicken in the sink, running or splashing water can spread bacteria such as Campylobacter and Salmonella, which are present on the chicken's surface, to the sink, surrounding kitchen utensils, and other foods.

The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety has also announced, "During the process of washing raw chicken, splashing water can contaminate vegetables and cooking utensils with bacteria, so caution is required."

Safe cleaning methods include cooking the chicken as is or blanching it in boiling water. If the internal temperature of poultry is maintained at 75°C or higher for at least one minute, bacteria can be eliminated.