Did you know by simply blowing out birthday candles on a cake you could be spreading germs germ by up to 1400%?
To help combat spreading germs over cakes while blowing out candles, a US dentist has invented “Top It”, a shield to protect party goers of all ages and it’s literally blown my mind.
Just now, thinking about the potential germs and viruses spread from blowing out candles over the years makes me feel uneasy. Having read a study completed by scientists in 2017 proving “bacterial transfer” can be “associated with blowing out candles on a birthday cake”, I’m all for it (and completely grossed out at the same time).
It sounds disgusting, right? However, the research showed transfer of oral bacteria by 1400% in comparison to cake a standard untouched, covered cake and that is precisely why the doctor-invented cake shield was created.
Dentist Billy Kay who specialises in prosthetic dentistry came up with the idea about thirty years ago. It’s only now, amid the coronavirus outbreak that he decided to create the prototype after numerous people became concerned about germs following the onset of the pandemic.
The Florida-based dentist’s cake shield design is already patent-pending. Pre-orders, or should I say, the waiting list for the much sought after party solution for the new normal is available now. The first batch will be shipped as early as next month.
The shield comes in three different designs - rectangular, round and a single slice - and fits all candle shapes and sizes, even large numbered candles. It is also made from food-grade FDA-approved recycled polystyrene, and it is flame resistant and reusable.
The main aim of the thoughtful flat-topped design is to keep the age of tradition of blowing candles alive but mostly to prevent spit and germs from potentially ending up on your guest’s dessert.
However, entrepreneurial dentist admits, it's only a quick cake solution, and it will not protect objects or people from being hit with potential bacteria, germs or viruses such as Covid-19. Like many, he recommends that everyone attending a birthday should still maintain social distancing preferably outdoors at a party and when blowing out the candles.
What do you think about the whole thing? Do you think it is insane or are you like me and secretly ordering one?