The secret lives of Vancouver’s ‘invisible mammals’ — and the race to save them
Photo: Quinn Bender / The Narwhal
October 30, 2024
Dr.Siyun Wang, a professor of food safety engineering, underscores the risks of consuming raw vegetables, which can harbor harmful bacteria like E. coli. Contamination can occur through various channels, including polluted irrigation water, cross-contamination during handling, or contact with animals in the field. “While cooking effectively kills these pathogens, raw consumption skips this critical step,” Wang notes, emphasizing the importance of thorough washing and proper food handling practices to minimize risks.
The probiotic treatment, described as “yogurt for bats,” is a groundbreaking approach that allows bats to spread protective microbes within their colonies. Early trials have shown promising results, with over 70% of treated bats carrying the beneficial microbes. As the disease looms closer, this innovative method could be key in safeguarding bat populations and maintaining the delicate balance of urban ecosystems.