Composting is one of the most satisfying DIY projects out there — it reduces waste, enriches soil, and makes you feel like you’re doing something good for the planet. But studies have thrown a surprising twist into the mix: some DIY compost piles may be harboring dangerous bacteria, including strains that can cause illness if handled improperly.
Before you panic and sprint to the backyard with a flamethrower, take a breath. Composting is still safe, still beneficial, and still one of the best things you can do for your garden. But like any biological process, it comes with risks — especially when the compost doesn’t reach high enough temperatures or contains materials that shouldn’t be there in the first place.
