Can I Get Coronavirus by Eating or Touching Food?

There has been a lot of concern about how the coronavirus spreads, and naturally, many people have questions about whether they can get infected by eating or touching food. This article will explore the latest research and recommendations from health experts to provide clarity on whether handling or consuming food poses a risk for COVID-19 transmission.

Does Eating Food Pose a Risk?

The short answer is probably not. Currently, there is no strong evidence to suggest that handling or consuming food is associated with contracting COVID-19. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) state that they have not seen any evidence that coronavirus has been transmitted through food.

However, it's important to understand that viruses can survive on surfaces, including food packaging. While the risk may be very low, it's still crucial to follow healthy habits and maintain social distance to minimize the risk of exposure.

Why Is Handling Food Considered Safe?

Here are some reasons why handling food is considered safe:

Food Preparation Practices: People generally take thorough precautions when handling and preparing food. These include washing hands with soap and water, cooking food to safe temperatures, and sanitizing surfaces and cooking tools.

Time Factor: Viruses, like the coronavirus, do not last indefinitely on surfaces. Over time, the amount of virus on the surface of food products, such as fruits and vegetables, diminishes.

Living vs. Inactivated Particles: Unlike bacteria, which can grow and multiply on food, viruses cannot reproduce in the cold, dry environment of food. They become inactive or less virulent as they age or are exposed to environmental factors.

Theoretical Risks

While the risk of ingesting enough viable viral particles directly through food is low, there are potential indirect risks to consider:

Respiratory and Digestive Tract: The Respiratory and Digestive tracts share a common passage up to the throat. If a person ingests food that has been contaminated by a very small amount of viable viral particles, these particles could still attach to the throat cells, enter them, and multiply, potentially causing an infection.

Physical Contact: The primary transmission risk is not through food itself but through physical contact with contaminated surfaces or objects (like unwashed hands) and then touching your mouth or nose. This is why proper hand hygiene is crucial.

Best Practices for Handling and Consuming Food

To minimize any potential risk and ensure food safety, consider these recommendations:

Wash Your Hands: Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20-30 seconds before and after handling food. Use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.

Social Distancing: Maintain at least 6 feet of distance from others when possible, especially when shopping for food.

Proper Food Handling: Wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water. Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth, after handling food.

Clean Surfaces: Regularly clean and disinfect any surfaces used in food preparation, such as counters, cutting boards, and utensils.

While the risk of contracting COVID-19 through food consumption is very low, following these best practices can help ensure both food safety and personal health.

Conclusion

Based on current scientific consensus, it is highly unlikely that you will contract COVID-19 from eating or handling food. However, practicing good hygiene and adhering to social distancing guidelines remain essential to reducing your overall risk of infection. By staying informed and following these recommended practices, you can minimize the likelihood of any exposure to the virus.