Everyday Science

The myth: Food that you drop on the floor is OK to eat if you pick it up within five seconds (a.k.a. the "Five Second Rule"). The reality: Germs are on the floor, and if food lands on the germs, they will stick to the food immediately. This is especially true in the kitchen, where bacteria such as salmonella thrive. Seen here is a salmonella culture, so ask yourself: Do you want to eat that?

AP Photo/Elaine Thompson