Skipping One Step in Thermos Cleaning Equals Drinking Poison! Health-Conscious Man Dies of Liver Cancer, Doctors Warn: Rinsing with Hot Water Isn't Enough

Thermoses are essential daily items for many people, but neglecting internal cleanliness and proper drying can pose serious health risks. Gastroenterologist Dr. Chien Cheng-Hung recently shared a clinical case involving a man in his 70s who lived a very regular lifestyle, with no history of smoking or drinking alcohol, yet was diagnosed with liver cancer during a routine health checkup and later passed away. After his passing, family members discovered severe mold growth inside the thermos he had been using daily while sorting through his belongings. Medical experts now stress that thoroughly drying the thermos after cleaning is the most crucial step to avoid ingesting mold toxins. If stubborn mold spots appear that cannot be cleaned, replacing the thermos entirely is strongly advised.

70-Year-Old Man Without Smoking or Drinking Habits Dies of Liver Cancer—Mold Found Inside His Thermos During Estate Sorting

During the TV program "Little Universe Big Explosion," gastroenterologist Dr. Chien Cheng-Hung discussed this case. Despite maintaining regular exercise and a disciplined daily routine, the elderly man was suddenly diagnosed with liver cancer. When family members opened the thermos he had used for years during estate cleanup, they were shocked to find deep, extensive mold buildup inside.

Dark Tea Concealed Mold Growth—Man Consumed Toxins Long-Term

Dr. Chien analyzed that the man had been brewing tea in the same thermos for years. Because tea has a dark color, mold clinging to the inner walls was nearly invisible to the naked eye. Over time, in a consistently moist and sealed environment, he unknowingly consumed mold toxins, which may have become a latent risk factor for liver cancer.

Dr. Chien emphasized that thermos cleaning shouldn’t be judged merely by outward appearance—"drying management" after use is far more important:

· Thoroughly drain after washing: Both the thermos body and silicone lid must be completely dried after cleaning. · Keep the lid open when not in use: When storing the thermos, keep the lid open to allow ventilation and prevent a damp, enclosed environment where mold thrives. · Replace immediately if mold appears: If mold spots develop inside the thermos or on the silicone ring and cannot be scrubbed away, replace the thermos immediately. Alternatively, establish a habit of replacing it periodically to ensure drinking safety.

Dr. Chien admitted that since learning about this case, he now opens the lid of his thermos right after use to keep the interior ventilated and dry.

Hot Water Rinsing Cannot Remove Toxins! Tan Dun-Ci: "Thorough Drying After Washing" Is Key

Many people believe that rinsing a thermos with hot water effectively sterilizes it. However, "Mother of Non-Toxic Living" Tan Dun-Ci clarified that certain mold-produced toxins are extremely heat-resistant and cannot be eliminated by hot water alone. Instead, ensuring the thermos is "completely dried" after washing—and thus denying mold the moist environment it needs to grow—is the most important preventive measure.

Tan also shared her personal habit: she only fills her thermos with plain boiled water and avoids sugary or colored beverages.

Replace Immediately If Mold Is Detected!

If you discover persistent mold spots inside your home thermos that cannot be brushed off, Dr. Chien recommends discontinuing its use and replacing it with a new one. Alternatively, adopting a routine of replacing your thermos at regular intervals can effectively prevent long-term harm from mold toxins to your liver and overall health.