It has been stated that meat products carrying E. Coli bacteria can cause urinary tract infections.

Scientists from the US and the UK examined more than 2,300 urine samples containing E. coli bacteria in Southern California between 2017 and 2021, and more than 3,300 meat samples collected from large supermarkets in the region during the same period.

Researchers pointed out that approximately one-fifth of the evaluated urinary tract infection cases may have been caused by the consumption of meat contaminated with E. Coli, and noted that the highest rate of E. Coli contamination in the samples was detected in chicken and turkey meat.

Researchers stated that meat products containing E. coli can pass into the intestines through contact in the kitchen or through raw and undercooked consumption, and from there, it can reach the urethra and carry infection to the urinary tract.

The study emphasized that meat producers and regulatory bodies should take stricter measures to reduce E. Coli contamination, and recommendations were made to prevent liquid leakage in packaging and raise hygiene standards.

The results of the research were published in the scientific journal mBio.