Red Wines Help Kill Foodborne Pathogens

Here's another reason to pour yourself a glass or two of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir or Shiraz.

According to research conducted by the University of Missouri these wines make for potent bacteria killers.

Now before you pour another glass of your favorite vino under the pretense of killing harmful pathogens, two cautions. Not all red varieties were found to be helpful in killing harmful bacteria. Red Zinfandel, one of my favorites, for example, exhibited no inhibitory properties on the bacteria. Second, the research was conducted in test tubes which is not enough to determine if a similar observed action would occur in humans who normally don't live in test tubes. Nothing was said about glass houses!

Whatever! It's nice to know that the red wine you covet not only tastes good, but actually is good for you too.

L'Chaim!