Fact Check: rat pee on soda or beer cans are dangerous and need to be washed prior to use

Claim Analysis: "Rat pee on soda or beer cans are dangerous and need to be washed prior to use"

Introduction

The claim that rat urine on soda or beer cans poses a significant health risk has circulated widely, suggesting that such contamination could lead to serious illness or even death. This assertion has prompted health experts and fact-checkers to investigate the validity of these concerns, particularly regarding the bacterial infection leptospirosis, which is associated with rat urine.

What We Know

1. Leptospirosis Overview: Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused by the Leptospira genus, which can be transmitted through contact with contaminated animal urine, including that of rats 8. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recognizes it as a potential health risk in urban areas where rodent populations are prevalent 10.

2. Contamination of Cans: There is a theoretical risk that soda or beer cans could be contaminated with rat urine during storage, particularly in environments where rodents are present 4. However, the likelihood of contracting leptospirosis from such contamination is considered extremely low by health experts 5.

3. Statistical Risk: According to the Leptospirosis Information Center, the risk of infection from residual rat urine on commercial drink containers is so minimal that it is likened to being struck by lightning while riding a camel 5. This suggests that while the risk exists, it is not significant enough to warrant widespread concern.

4. Historical Context: The narrative surrounding rat urine on cans has been characterized as an urban legend, with many accounts of illness attributed to this source being anecdotal and lacking scientific backing 26.

5. Expert Opinions: A study published in the Journal of Infectious Diseases indicated that while contaminated cans can theoretically harbor leptospires, these organisms are delicate and do not survive long outside a host 9. This further diminishes the likelihood of infection from dried urine on cans.

Analysis

The sources consulted provide a mix of scientific evidence and anecdotal claims regarding the dangers of rat urine on beverage containers.

• Credibility of Sources:

  • The Journal of Infectious Diseases and the CDC are reputable sources that provide scientifically backed information, lending credibility to their assessments of risk 810.
  • Snopes, a well-known fact-checking website, has addressed the claim as a hoax, highlighting the lack of verifiable cases linking illness directly to contaminated cans 2. However, it is important to note that while Snopes is generally reliable, it may not always present exhaustive scientific data.
  • The Leptospirosis Information Center offers a clear stance on the statistical improbability of infection from cans, but it is essential to consider potential conflicts of interest, as organizations may have agendas related to public health messaging 5.

• Methodological Concerns: Many of the claims regarding illness from rat urine on cans stem from anecdotal reports rather than controlled studies. The reliance on personal stories can lead to misinformation, as these accounts often lack rigorous scientific validation 6.

• Contradicting Evidence: While some sources emphasize the potential risks associated with drinking from unwashed cans, others argue that the actual risk is negligible, primarily due to the fragility of leptospires outside a host 9. This dichotomy in evidence highlights the need for further research to clarify the actual risks involved.

Conclusion

Verdict: Mostly False

The claim that rat urine on soda or beer cans poses a significant health risk is mostly false. While there is a theoretical possibility of contamination, the actual risk of contracting leptospirosis from such sources is extremely low, as supported by credible health organizations and expert opinions. The likelihood of infection is so minimal that it has been compared to unlikely scenarios, such as being struck by lightning while riding a camel.

It is important to recognize that much of the concern surrounding this issue is rooted in anecdotal evidence and urban legend rather than robust scientific data. While some sources highlight potential risks, the prevailing consensus among health experts is that the risk is negligible, particularly given the fragility of the leptospires outside a host.

However, it is crucial to acknowledge the limitations of the available evidence. The lack of controlled studies directly linking illness to contaminated cans means that definitive conclusions cannot be drawn. Readers are encouraged to critically evaluate information and consider the context and credibility of sources when assessing health-related claims.

Sources

1. Cold drink cans contaminated with rat urine can kill - PMC. Link
2. Can You Catch Leptospirosis from Rat Urine on Soda Cans? - Snopes. Link
3. Rat Urine on Soda Cans. Fact Check - ThatsNonsense.com. Link
4. Drinking cola or beer straight out of a can can cause this deadly ... - Times of India. Link
5. Soda cans and leptospirosis - Leptospirosis.org. Link
6. Myth or Fact: Can You Die from Rat Urine on Soda Cans? - The Specialists. Link
7. PDF Cold drink cans contaminated with rat urine can kill - Springer. Link
8. Rat Urine Is Spreading a Life-Threatening Bacterial ... - Everyday Health. Link
9. Leptospirosis on cans: urban legend? - The BMJ. Link
10. Drinking From Cans Can Be Harmful For Your Health: Know How - News18. Link