'Network': Health Sandwiches in Cafes Overflowing with Bacteria

Health sandwiches sold in cafes, containing whole-grain bread, fresh vegetables, and additions like salmon, tuna, eggs, or various cheeses, are considered by many as 'health sandwiches'. They are marketed as such, and their prices reflect this perception. However, a 'Network' investigation, conducted in collaboration with the laboratories of the Tel Hai Academic College, reveals particularly alarming findings: the 'healthy' sandwiches contain an enormous amount of bacteria.

The investigation found that these sandwiches have a bacteria count far exceeding the Health Ministry's standard. Many sandwiches were found to contain pathogenic bacteria, which could be harmful to health, including fecal coliform bacteria that might indicate listeria - an illness that develops in contaminated food.

(photo: shutterstock)

One of the health sandwiches tested contained over a million bacteria. The count for coliform bacteria was 25,000 - a deviation of 25 times the permissible standard. An additional 700 fecal E. coli bacteria, which should not be present in food or its surroundings, were uncovered. The sandwich bore the label 'health sandwich', approved by the Health Ministry.

Among the kosher branches tested, the sandwiches from Cofix, Roldin, and Lord Sandwich were found to be completely compliant.