Is it Safe to Eat Non-Vegetarian Food in India During COVID-19?

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve, many people are concerned about the safety of their food, particularly non-vegetarian items. This concern is especially prevalent in India, where a significant portion of the population consumes non-vegetarian food. The question arises, “Is it safe to eat non-vegetarian food in India during COVID-19?” To answer this, we need to delve into the scientific evidence and guidelines provided by health organizations.

Understanding COVID-19 and Food Transmission

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it is highly unlikely that people can contract COVID-19 from food or food packaging. COVID-19 is a respiratory virus that primarily spreads through droplets generated when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or exhales. It is not a foodborne virus. Therefore, the risk of catching the virus through the consumption of non-vegetarian food is minimal.

Role of Proper Cooking

Proper cooking is a critical factor in ensuring the safety of non-vegetarian food. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) states that cooking food at temperatures above 70°C kills the virus. Therefore, if non-vegetarian food is cooked thoroughly and properly, it should be safe to consume.

Precautions While Handling and Preparing Food

While the risk of contracting COVID-19 from non-vegetarian food is low, it is essential to follow certain precautions while handling and preparing food. These include washing hands thoroughly before and after handling food, avoiding cross-contamination by separating raw meat from other foods, and ensuring that food is cooked at the right temperatures.

Safe Food Practices

• Always wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before and after handling food.

• Use separate chopping boards and knives for raw meat and cooked food to prevent cross-contamination.

• Cook meat thoroughly. Use a food thermometer to ensure that meat is cooked to the right temperature.

• Refrigerate cooked food within two hours and consume it within three to four days.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is safe to eat non-vegetarian food in India during the COVID-19 pandemic, provided that proper cooking and food handling practices are followed. It is important to remember that the primary mode of transmission for COVID-19 is through direct contact with infected individuals and not through food. Therefore, while it is essential to maintain good food hygiene practices, it is equally important to follow other preventive measures such as wearing masks, maintaining social distancing, and practicing good hand hygiene.