Meat-borne Bacteria Cause Urinary Tract Infections

E. coli found in meat may be the cause of half a million or more urinary tract infections in the United States every year, according to a recent article in One Health. Researchers found that approximately 8% of E. coli urinary tract infections in the United States (or between 480,000 to 640,000) were caused by bacteria strains present in and consumed through meat. Urinary tract infections are often mild but can progress to kidney disease and even sepsis. Antibiotic use in animals on farms also contributes to antibiotic resistance. 

A diet free of animal products reduces exposure to these foodborne bacteria strains, reduces antibiotic use, and lowers the risk of many chronic diseases.