Questions and concerns regarding Coronavirus (COVID-19) being transmitted through food or food packaging have been raised. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) are not aware of any reports at this time where takeout or drive thru meals will increase illness. In fact, it is the best option for high risk and elderly groups because of the reduction of the number of times it is handled. Just to be safe, after handling food packaging, handwashing and/or using hand sanitizer will minimize the risk. If delivering meals, no touch/social distancing are encouraged to also reduce risk of transmitting the virus.
Shopping at the grocery store may be another concern, especially with produce items. Similarly, as indicated above, there is no indication of COVID-19 being transmitted by food. Just to be on the safe side, there are some ways to lower the risk when shopping at the grocery store. When entering and leaving the store, use hand sanitizer. Maintain social distancing as much as possible. Avoid touching surfaces or items, including produce, unnecessarily, and avoid touching your mouth, nose or face.
The most important steps you can take when handling, prepping and preparing food is to wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds after using the restroom, blowing your nose, coughing, sneezing and after being in public areas. Hand sanitizer may be used to supplement hand washing or a temporary way to decrease the spread of germs if hand washing is not available but should not be substituted in place of washing hands with soap and water. Most importantly, do not go shopping when showing symptoms or if you think you have been exposed to the virus.
If you have questions or ideas you think our office can help with, please contact Janell at the Chouteau County Extension Office at 622-3036 or janellb@montana.edu.
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Montana State University, US Department of Agriculture and Montana Counties Cooperating. MSU Extension is an equal opportunity/affirmative action provider of educational outreach.
