Can coronavirus be transmitted through food?

In response to the question: "Can Coronavirus be transmitted through food?" the ASAE Scientific Council has verified that all research work carried out so far shows that there is no evidence that SARS‐COV‐2 constitutes a food safety risk, not considering this as a foodborne virus. Thus, the risk of contracting COVID‐19 through contaminated food or through food packaging is classified as very low. So far, there are no cases of transmission through food or food packaging. The virus is primarily a respiratory virus that can also enter the bloodstream through the mucous membranes of the eyes. The existence of viruses on different surfaces, namely in food packaging, and their persistence is known for which it is recommended to follow the appropriate hygiene rules, which invariably begin with hand washing prior to handling food. These precautions must be reinforced at a professional level due to the high number of packages handled and processed foods.

The ASAE Scientific Council considers that, in view of the existing evidence, it is safe to consume food, including fruits and vegetables, valuing normal good hygiene practices in the areas of food preparation and fresh food consumption as in the non‐pandemic phase.