How Long Does COVID-19 Virus Survive on Unheated Prepared Food? Safety Concerns Explained

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve, many people are concerned about the safety of their food. One question that often arises is how long the virus can survive on unheated prepared food, such as a cheese spread prepared in a grocery store. If an infected worker were to cough, sneeze, talk, or simply breathe on the food, would it be unsafe? And if so, for how long? This article aims to address these concerns and provide some clarity on the matter.

Understanding COVID-19 Transmission

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the primary mode of transmission for COVID-19 is through close person-to-person contact, particularly through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. However, it’s also possible to get the virus by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching your own mouth, nose, or possibly your eyes.

COVID-19 and Food Safety

When it comes to food, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) states that there is currently no evidence to suggest that food produced in the United States can transmit COVID-19. This includes prepared foods. The World Health Organization (WHO) also supports this, stating that coronaviruses cannot multiply in food; they need an animal or human host to multiply.

Survival of COVID-19 on Surfaces

While it’s true that COVID-19 can survive on surfaces for a certain period, the duration varies depending on the type of surface. According to a study published in The New England Journal of Medicine, the virus can live up to four hours on copper, up to 24 hours on cardboard, and up to two to three days on plastic and stainless steel. However, the amount of viable virus decreases significantly over this time.

Precautions to Take

Even though the risk of contracting COVID-19 from food is low, it’s still important to follow good food safety practices. This includes washing your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water before preparing or eating food, avoiding close contact with people who are sick, and cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces daily.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while it’s theoretically possible for COVID-19 to be present on unheated prepared food if an infected person were to cough, sneeze, or breathe on it, the risk of transmission through this route is considered to be low. The virus does not survive well on food, and it cannot multiply in it. As always, practicing good hygiene and food safety measures is the best way to protect yourself.