Urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection in the urinary tract. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, women are most at risk for UTIs. Furthermore, the NHS said that UTIs occur when bacteria from stool enter the urinary tract. Since women have a shorter urethra than men, bacteria can reach the bladder or kidneys faster and cause infection.
Also read: Urinary Tract Infection: Symptoms, Lifestyle Changes That Can Help Prevent UTIs
A study published in the Journal of the American Society for Microbiology on October 23, 2025 narrowed down the mechanisms by which some UTIs occur. This link explores food handling practices in the kitchen.
What did the study find?
The purpose of the study was to determine whether some UTIs are caused by factors other than hygiene or dehydration, since the bacteria that cause them are usually associated with the gut and enter the urinary tract.
The research found that 18 percent of UTIs were linked to E. coli strains that originated from animals used for meat production. 1 in 5 bacteria that cause UTIs were identified based on genetics as bacteria found in meat. This means that some cases of UTI can come not only from bacteria in the body, but also from meat. The highest contamination levels, about 36 to 38 percent, were found in meats such as chicken and turkey.
Additionally, the study found that people living in low-income areas were 60 percent more likely to get a UTI from food-borne bacteria. Its causes suggest inadequate access to refrigeration, poor kitchen hygiene, or improper cooking.
What does it mean?
This means that how you cook and handle meat is very important and should not be taken lightly. Here, the kitchen proved to be an unexpected source, as this is where all the food preparation takes place.
If raw meat containing E. coli is not handled safely and proper hygiene is not maintained, there is a possibility of the bacteria spreading. For example, not washing food properly or not cleaning the cutting board and cutting vegetables on it. The bacteria are then transferred to other foods, significantly increasing the risk of contamination.
Along with personal hygiene practices, your food management methods are equally important in preventing UTIs.
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you may have about a medical condition.
