Can You Get Covid-19 From Food?

The World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 coronavirus a pandemic globally on March 11, 2020. All levels of government continue to monitor and update Canadians to help minimize this rapidly evolving public health issue

We are all taking extra steps to protect ourselves and those around us.

Coronavirus is a respiratory virus that causes infections of the nose, throat and lungs. They are most commonly spread from an infected person through:

respiratory droplets generated when you cough or sneeze

close, prolonged personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands

touching something with the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose or eyes before washing your hands

Practice frequent hand hygiene and coughing and sneezing etiquette. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces, such as toys, phones and door handles. These are the most important ways that you can protect yourself and your family from respiratory illness, including COVID-19.

“Many Canadians can’t afford to stock up all at once and we will all need to make our supplies last. Let’s be kind”

 

Does Covid-19 spread through food?
We have seen a lot of questions about whether or not you can get coronavirus from food.

The virus is not spread through food.

However, practicing good hygiene and food safety can help reduce your risk of spreading the disease. Health Canada advises that we frequently wash our hands with soap and water (use alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available) for 20 seconds, especially before you eat or prepare food.

Can I get Covid-19 from food or products that come from areas with high rates of infection?
“Coronaviruses generally do not survive on surfaces after being contaminated. The risk of spread from products shipped over a period of days or weeks at room temperature is very low. There is no known risk of coronaviruses entering Canada on parcels or packages coming from affected regions in China.” Health Canada.

Although COVID-19 originated in China, it is still safe to enjoy your favorite takeout – you can’t get coronavirus from eating Chinese food.

Stocking Up
Over the next few weeks many of us will be avoiding crowds and spending more time at home preparing our own meals. Remembering to follow food handling guidelines is always important to keep your family safe from food-borne illnesses. If you’re stocking up on food supplies. make sure to store your food properly so that it lasts as long as possible.

It is also a good idea to stock up on prescriptions, pet food, diapers, and feminine hygiene products.

Avoid Panic Buying

It is good to be prepared but try to avoid panic buying. If you’re worried about running out of food, please be considerate and only stock up for what you need for the next few weeks. Many Canadians can’t afford to stock up all at once and we will all need to make our supplies last. Let’s be kind.

Canadian Food Focus