Q. I am sick and tired of reading about germs in restaurants or coffee shops. I think this is all much ado about nothing. If you are that worried about germs, you shouldn’t eat out.
I eat out a lot, in all types of restaurants, and the only thing that has ever made me sick was a mayonnaise sauce that wasn’t kept at the right temp.
Here’s the truth: a lot of people touch your food before it gets to your plate. It’s not a big deal.
A. You are right that it’s impossible to avoid germs. On the other hand, we should expect food and beverage handlers to be careful. Here’s another reader’s response:
“After reading your column about baristas palming coffee lids and transferring germs, I was reminded of an experience I had. I frequently bought coffee and kept getting impetigo [a staph or strep infection] on my upper lip.
“I racked my brain as to how or why I kept getting recurring infections after clearing them up with a prescription ointment. Finally it dawned on me that the barista was handling money and then my lid. I began ordering no lid (which is against company policy) or replacing it if they wouldn’t comply. I haven’t had any infections since.”
