8 Indicators of a Dirty Grocery Store

Let's face it, nobody enjoys shopping in a messy grocery store. But beyond aesthetics, a dirty store can pose a severe health risk. While most grocery stores prioritize cleanliness, there can be slip-ups. 

Here are eight sneaky signs a store might not be as sanitized as it should be:

Sticky Carts

Shopping cart handles are a breeding ground for germs. It's safe to assume the carts at your local store are not getting wiped down regularly. Give the handle a good disinfectant wipe-down before you start shopping.

Conveyor Belt Blues

Another germ hot spot? The checkout conveyor belt. If it feels greasy or has visible food debris, it indicates it isn't being sanitized frequently enough. Try to avoid placing your groceries directly on the belt.

Chilling Dairy Dilemmas

Who doesn't love a shiny, clean dairy case. This haven for milk, cheese, and yogurt should be cold and tidy. However, if you notice spills or leaks that are not cleaned up promptly, it raises a red flag about the store's overall sanitation practices.

Meat Slicer Mishaps

The meat slicer should be gleaming and sanitized after each use. Notice leftover meat particles or a general lack of shine? It might be best to steer clear of the deli counter.

Bathroom Blues

Let's face it, public restrooms are never the cleanest places in the world. But suppose the one in your grocery store is overflowing with trash or has a persistent foul odor. It could be a sign that the cleaning crew is cutting corners in other areas of the store, too.

Questionable Cleaning Supplies

If you see cleaning carts overflowing with dirty rags or clearly diluted cleaning solutions, it's not a good sign. Proper sanitation requires using the right cleaning products at the right concentrations and cleaning tools like rags and sponges.

Grimy Shelves

Grocery shelves must be regularly wiped down to prevent dust and debris buildup. If the shelves in your store look perpetually grimy, it's a cause for concern.

Flooded Floors

Spills happen, but if you see a spill on the floor that hasn't been cleaned up promptly, it indicates a lapse in cleaning protocols. Slipping on a wet floor is a safety hazard, and wet surfaces are breeding grounds for bacteria.

Keeping Yourself Safe

By watching out for these red flags, you can be a more informed shopper and take steps to protect yourself. And always remember these two important tips:

• Wash your produce Always wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating them, regardless of where you shop.

• Sanitize your hands Use hand sanitizer after shopping, especially before touching your face.

By following these tips, you can help minimize your exposure to germs and have a safe and healthy shopping experience!

References: 12 Things Supermarkets Aren't Cleaning As They Should | 8 Scary Signs Your Grocery Store Isn't Sanitized Properly