Coffee Machines Stock Germs, Say Scientists

Coffee machine making an espresso. AFP photo
Coffee machine making an espresso. AFP photo
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Coffee Machines Stock Germs, Say Scientists

Coffee machine making an espresso. AFP photo
Coffee machine making an espresso. AFP photo

Scientists have found that all kinds of pathogens gather in coffee grounds and in used pod machine capsules.

According to the German News Agency (DPA), Fritz Titgemeyer, head of the Food Microbiology Laboratory at the Munster University of Applied Sciences in Germany, said that damp coffee grounds encourage the growth of germs.

If you leave a used coffee pod in the machine for a few days before throwing it out, some mould spores may remain in there and you may be adding them to your next brew.

Titgemeyer noted that a heat-stable poison may have developed, a so-called mycotoxin, and you will not be able to see or taste it.

The water containers and the plastic tubes in coffee machines are also a perfect breeding ground for bacteria if they are not cleaned properly. The expert said that bacteria can settle there in the form of biofilms. All removable components need to be cleaned thoroughly.

Titgemeyer added however disgusting it may be to imagine one's coffee machine full of microorganisms, they do not really pose a health risk.

"The water is heated to 80 degrees Celsius, which kills any germs present in the water tank," he said.

If you use the machine to make cold drinks, however, you may need to worry. Titgemeyer explained that in cold-extracted drinks like iced tea or iced coffee, all germs will remain. The good news is that many coffee machines include a self-cleaning program, but there are also extra things you can do to make sure you keep the germs at bay.



North Riyadh Geopark, Salma Geopark Join UNESCO’s Global Geoparks List

The newly recognized geoparks will serve as key destinations for local and international visitors, offering an opportunity to explore the Kingdom’s geological wonders while fostering scientific and cultural awareness of geodiversity conservation - SPA
The newly recognized geoparks will serve as key destinations for local and international visitors, offering an opportunity to explore the Kingdom’s geological wonders while fostering scientific and cultural awareness of geodiversity conservation - SPA
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North Riyadh Geopark, Salma Geopark Join UNESCO’s Global Geoparks List

The newly recognized geoparks will serve as key destinations for local and international visitors, offering an opportunity to explore the Kingdom’s geological wonders while fostering scientific and cultural awareness of geodiversity conservation - SPA
The newly recognized geoparks will serve as key destinations for local and international visitors, offering an opportunity to explore the Kingdom’s geological wonders while fostering scientific and cultural awareness of geodiversity conservation - SPA

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has officially designated the North Riyadh Geopark and Salma Geopark as part of its UNESCO Global Geoparks Network, marking a significant milestone for Saudi Arabia in preserving geoheritage and promoting sustainable development.
The recognition follows UNESCO’s stringent selection criteria, which emphasize the comprehensive management of geoparks. These criteria ensure a balance between conservation, education, and sustainable development while actively involving local communities.
CEO of the National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification (NCVC) Khaled Al-Abdulkader praised the announcement as a testament to Saudi Arabia’s dedication to protecting its natural and historical heritage, SPA reported.
He attributed the achievement to the steadfast support of the Saudi leadership in enhancing environmental initiatives and promoting sustainability.
He also underscored NCVC’s efforts to preserve the country’s unique natural landscapes, particularly its geological sites, in line with Vision 2030’s sustainable development goals.
Senior Director of the Saudi Geoparks Initiative Hussam Al-Turki emphasized that the inclusion of North Riyadh Geopark and Salma Geopark is a moment of national pride. He noted that this milestone not only reinforces Saudi Arabia’s commitment to preserving its cultural and natural identity but also strengthens its role as a global leader in geoheritage conservation and sustainable development.
With this designation, Saudi Arabia reaffirms its commitment to global environmental efforts.

According to SPA, the newly recognized geoparks will serve as key destinations for local and international visitors, offering an opportunity to explore the Kingdom’s geological wonders while fostering scientific and cultural awareness of geodiversity conservation.
Beyond geotourism, geoparks play a vital role in sustainable natural resource management by connecting geotourism with local economic development, creating jobs, and fostering environmental education. This initiative represents a collaborative effort among government bodies, the private sector, and non-profit organizations, enhancing Saudi Arabia’s contribution to both national and sustainable development goals.