Can Covid-19 be spread through food? Scientists think yes! That means if you are feeling ill with a fever or cough, you should not be preparing food for the public or others.

If you are not feeling ill, however, please use these tips to prevent spreading any germs among those in your household.

Stay clean

As with all food, those preparing it should first wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use sanitizer if soap and water are not available and only use ones with 60% or more alcohol.

If you cough or sneeze near food or in a kitchen, do not serve that food to others. Even if you don’t have Covid-19, you could have another illness that you don’t want to spread.

Cooked food is safest

Scientists believe that cooking food to an internal temperature to 165 degrees will kill the virus and will kill other harmful bacteria. Boiling food in water to 140-150 degrees is high enough to kill most viruses and bacteria, too.

Practice kitchen hygiene

Do not share household items with those who are sick. Use disposable plates, cups and utensils if possible. Use a high temperature dish washer to sanitized shared items.

Clean and sanitizer your kitchens. Wipe down frequently touched surfaces and handles. This should be done several times a day.

Diane Oliver, MPH, RDN, LDN

Certified ServSafe Instructor

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College of Agriculture & Natural Resources