Faecal matter found in coffee shop ice machines

An investigation carried out by BBC One’s Watchdog program has found faecal bacteria was discovered at a number of iced drinks from Costa Coffee, Starbucks and Caffe Nero.

The bacteria was found in seven out of 10 samples at Costa, and three out of 10 at both Caffe Nero and Starbucks.

Tony Lewis, head of policy and education at the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health, told the BBC that he found the levels of contamination “concerning” and said that it “should not be present at any level; never mind the significant numbers found.”

He added: “The bacteria found are opportunistic pathogens – the source of human disease.”

All the coffee chains involved in the investigation said they had since taken action and were updating its hygiene training and ice handling guidelines. Costa went on to say that it would introduce new ice equipment at its establishments.

The Watchdog episode will air tonight (28 June) at 8pm on BBC One.