Potential Health Hazards Associated with Reusable Foodservice Utensils.

Health hazards of reusable foodservice utensils are reviewed, beginning with Crumbine's studies in Kansas City in 1907. Reports of transmission of communicable diseases through improperly sanitized utensils are included. Despite determined efforts by public health personnel and foodservice managers, utensil washing practices in public eating places continue to be unsatisfactory, with many utensils exceeding bacterial limits.