The five second rule feels like something everyone has just always known, but Dr. Keith Warriner, microbiologist, traces its actual origin back centuries, through a Mongol emperor, a 1960s TV cook, and a decades-old novel, before it ever touched a real study.

Once real research got involved, the picture changed fast. Keith breaks down which surfaces in a home pick up the most bacteria, and why one specific flooring type turns out to be far worse than people assume.

He also gets honest about where he personally draws the line between food worth saving and food that goes straight in the trash, based on what he actually knows about what's living on the floor.

Topics: five second rule, food safety, bacteria floors, kitchen hygiene, microbiology

GUEST: Dr. Keith Warriner | @‌kwarrine

Originally aired on 2026-09-03

The five second rule feels like something everyone has just always known, but Dr. Keith Warriner, microbiologist, traces its actual origin back centuries, through a Mongol emperor, a 1960s TV cook, and a decades-old novel, before it ever touched a real study.
Once real research got involved, the picture changed fast. Keith breaks down which surfaces in a home pick up the most bacteria, and why one specific flooring type turns out to be far worse than people assume.
He also gets honest about where he personally draws the line between food worth saving and food that goes straight in the trash, based on what he actually knows about what's living on the floor.
Topics: five second rule, food safety, bacteria floors, kitchen hygiene, microbiology
GUEST: Dr. Keith Warriner | @&zwnj;kwarrine
Originally aired on&nbsp;2026-09-03

Shane Hewitt & The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world—always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.

From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane’s signature style—thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.

If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt &amp; The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world&mdash;always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.
From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane&rsquo;s signature style&mdash;thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.
If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt and The Nightshift

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.