Foodborne infections, often caused by harmful bacteria, viruses, or parasites, can lead to severe health issues. These illnesses are typically transmitted through contaminated food or improper food handling and storage. Common pathogens include Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria, which thrive on raw foods, cooked leftovers, foods stored at improper temperatures, surfaces, and packaging materials, etc.
Cling wrap plays a significant role in protecting food from contamination, moisture, and air exposure, which can lead to spoilage. By providing a barrier, it helps maintain freshness, particularly for fruits, vegetables, meat, and other perishables. However, traditional cling wraps can still harbor bacteria on the surface or allow microbial growth if moisture is trapped inside the packaging. For instance, if packaging is contaminated, it can introduce microbes to the food, and consuming contaminated food can cause foodborne illnesses. In this blog, we’ll delve into the causes of foodborne infections, identify common microbes that contribute to these illnesses, and introduce how Protector® Antibacterial Cling Wrap works and why it is an essential tool for maintaining a safe and hygienic kitchen.
Foodborne infections comprise a wide range of infections from stomachache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, listeriosis, and shigellosis, to life-threatening infections. Foodborne infections are caused by several microbes including Listeria, Shigella, Campylobacter Bacillus spp. Staphylococcus aureus, and Klebsiella spp. etc. These bacteria can enter the food chain at any point from farm to fork. Packaging is a key aspect of bacterial contamination.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) in the developed world, each year up to one-third of people get infected by food-borne pathogens, and the prevalence of foodborne illnesses in the developing world is higher. 
According to UK Research and Innovation every year, there are approximately 2.4 million cases of foodborne illnesses in the UK. The estimated annual cost of these illnesses is £9 billion. Campylobacter and Salmonella are the most common microbes associated with these infections.
Listeria-related food poisoning is rare but has a mortality rate of nearly 13%. On the other hand, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has estimated that every year in the United States: 48 million (or 1 in 6) people get sick from a foodborne illness. 128,000 people are hospitalized because of a foodborne illness. 3,000 people die from foodborne. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has reported Bacillus spp. contributed 2% of outbreaks whereas Staph. remain the most common causes of food-borne diseases in the USA contributing up to 85%. The burden and cost remain high making it a global concern.
Moreover, cross-contamination can occur when raw and cooked food are placed in proximity and share the same surfaces. Such unintended transfer of microbes from one surface to another also spreads infections. People are quite vigilant regarding food safety and taking extra steps to avoid food contamination.
Keeping in mind the importance of food safety and the risk of foodborne illnesses, Health & Hygiene Ltd. has introduced an innovative product, Protector® Antibacterial Cling Wrap. This groundbreaking product offers all the benefits of a traditional cling wrap while providing extra protection against harmful bacteria.
Protector® Antibacterial Cling Wrap is a food wrap infused with antibacterial technology to inhibit the growth of bacteria on its surface. This means that while it seals food as normal cling wrap does, it also actively fights off bacteria, adding an extra level of food safety. This feature not only helps to keep the packed food fresh for longer but also avoids cross-contamination. The antibacterial technology used in Protector® Cling Wrap is designed to reduce the risk of bacterial spread while keeping food fresh and its taste intact. The antibacterial technology is safe to use and approved for food contact applications. Moreover, H&H has conducted third-party testing which proved 99.99% effectiveness of Protector® Cling Wrap in accordance with ISO 22196. 
How Does Protector® Antibacterial Cling Wrap Work?
The key to Protector® Antibacterial Cling Wrap is the incorporation of antibacterial technology into the film. This antibacterial technology interferes with the bacteria’s ability to grow, reproduce, and survive on the surface of the cling wrap.
Here’s a simple breakdown of the process:
- Bacterial Contact: When bacteria come into contact with the cling wrap, the antibacterial agents are activated.
- Inhibition of Growth: The agents disrupt the bacteria’s cell walls, inhibit enzyme activity, or interfere with DNA replication, depending on the specific antimicrobial used.
- Bacterial Elimination: As a result, bacterial growth is slowed or completely stopped, reducing the risk of contamination on the surface of the wrap. This process significantly reduces bacterial load, growth, and spread.
Why Protector® Antibacterial Cling Wrap is a must-have kitchen product?
- Enhanced Food Safety: Antibacterial cling wrap helps reduce bacterial growth, lowering the chances of contamination.
- Prolonged Shelf-life: The antibacterial cling wrap not only inhibits bacterial growth but helps to keep food fresh for longer.
- Improved Hygiene: Added protection for households, commercial kitchens, or food industries where hygiene is critical.
- Versatility: Antibacterial cling wrap can be used for a vast variety of food products from wrapping sandwiches, covering bowls, sealing cuts of meat, and preserving produce. Its versatility makes it an excellent solution for both household kitchens and professional food service environments.
Protector® Cling Wrap is an exciting advancement in the field of food safety providing peace of mind when it comes to food safety. With its ability to reduce bacterial growth and keep food fresher for longer, it’s a valuable tool for anyone concerned about hygiene and contamination in the kitchen. Whether you’re preparing meals for your family or running a commercial kitchen, Protector® Antibacterial Cling Wrap is a smart investment for safer, fresher food.
Your First Line of Defense Against Food Contamination
