Yuk! A study done by NSF International examined 30 everyday items from 22 different households. Pet food dishes ranked 4th in the final list of germ hot spots topped by kitchen sponge/dish rag, kitchen sink and toothbrush holder.
Food bowls can serve as ideal breeding grounds for bacteria, mold, and yeast.
Source: Reader’s Digest. Link.
To prevent any potential sickness spreading around your home, NSF recommends washing food and water bowls daily, either in a dishwasher or with soap and hot water.
INSIGHTS: This is another good educational article to share on social media, websites and in e-newsletters. Veterinary clinics and retailers can include pet food dish sanitation in their new pet owner education efforts and in annual exam consultations. Note the reference to stainless steel and ceramic versus plastics.