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A BBC investigation has found bacteria from faeces in Starbucks, Costa, and Caffe Nero iced drinks
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It's hard to match the refreshing taste of an iced coffee on a hot summer day — but a new BBC investigation may make you think twice before you order a chilled drink.
The BBC's consumer affairs "Watchdog" programme found that samples of iced drinks from Costa Coffee, Starbucks, and Caffe Nero contained "varying levels of the bacteria."
Along with the ice, the cleanliness of tables trays, and high chairs were also tested at 30 branches.
Costa was the worst offender, with seven out of 10 samples "found to be contaminated with bacteria found in faeces."
Starbucks and Caffe Nero also tested positive for the bacteria known as "faecal coliforms" in three out of 10 samples.
Tony Lewis, the head of policy at the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health, said the levels found were "concerning." He said the types of bacteria identified are "the source of human disease," adding: "These should not be present at any level — never mind the significant numbers found."
The BBC reported that all three chains, some of the biggest in the UK, said they had now "taken action," with Costa claiming it had "updated its ice-handling guidelines and was in the process of introducing new ice equipment storage."
Meanwhile, both Starbucks and Caffee Nero told the BBC they were conducting their own investigations into the claims. Starbucks said it takes hygiene "extremely seriously."
You can check out the "Watchdog" programme on BBC1 Wednesday at 8 p.m. BST.
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