Even when it comes to our diet, the corona virus is currently a challenge. On the one hand, we are happy that we finally have time to cook freshly and maybe even eat healthier as a result. But if you then hold the fresh fruit and vegetables in your hand in the supermarket, the first questions arise in our heads: Aren’t there countless viruses on the apple? Is it enough if I just wash it off under running water at home as usual?
First the good news:
Transmission of the coronavirus via contaminated or imported food is very unlikely, according to the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture (BMEL). It’s not impossible, but it’s not: Like other viruses, the virus is transmitted via droplets. Theoretically, it is also possible for the coronavirus to be transmitted via the surfaces of food, where it can survive for several days.
So should we now resort to packaged fruit and vegetables?
Not necessarily! Although food packaged in plastic does not come into direct contact with potential infected people, the virus can just as easily attach itself to the packaging. So if you want to be on the safe side, you should remove the packaging before storing fruit and vegetables in the fridge. After that, don’t forget to wash your hands!
Whether packaged or unpackaged:
fruit and vegetables should of course be washed well or even peeled before consumption. In the case of vegetables that are additionally heated, the corona virus is killed well below 100 °C. Especially those who belong to the risk group should avoid raw food during the current situation.
