Is It OK to Double Dip?
Double dipping does transfer bacteria from your mouth to shared dip, but the actual health risk is low in most social situations. A 2009 Clemson study found 3-6 times more bacteria in dip after double dipping. Whether this matters depends on context - it is more of a social etiquette issue than a serious health hazard among healthy people.
Key Takeaways
- The science confirms bacteria transfer.
- People who are sick should avoid shared dips entirely, not just avoid double dipping.
- Immunocompromised individuals may have more reason for concern.
Explanation
The science confirms bacteria transfer. Dipping a bitten chip transfers oral bacteria to the dip. The Clemson study found about 1,000 bacteria per milliliter of dip after double dipping, compared to 100 bacteria in dip with no double dipping. Salsa and chocolate dip showed more bacterial transfer than thicker cheese dip.
The health risk is generally low. Your mouth already contains millions of bacteria, and most oral bacteria are harmless to healthy individuals. At a party with friends and family, double dipping is unlikely to make anyone sick. The actual risk is spreading cold or flu viruses if you are already ill.
Social context matters more than microbiology. Double dipping is widely considered rude regardless of health implications. If you want more dip, break your chip/cracker in half and only dip the uneaten portion, or put some dip on your own plate. In professional or formal settings, definitely avoid double dipping.
Things to Know
- People who are sick should avoid shared dips entirely, not just avoid double dipping.
- Immunocompromised individuals may have more reason for concern.
- Single-serve dip portions eliminate the issue entirely at gatherings.