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COVID-19 FAQ for Foodservice: Cleaning and Disinfection

ID

FST-368-9NP

Authors as Published

Renee Boyer, Professor and Extension Specialist, Food Science and Technology, Virginia Tech; and Ben Chapman, Professor and Food Safety Extension Specialist, North Carolina State University

There is no CDC report that COVID-19 is transmitted through food, but evidence suggests it may remain viable for hours to days on surfaces. CDC recommends cleaning followed by disinfection as a best practice for prevention of COVID-19.

WHAT DISINFECTANTS SHOULD BE USED?

  • CDC advises using compounds on the list of EPA recommended disinfectants, found at: go.ncsu.edu/epacovid-19.
    • Note: this list is based on current data, but compounds have not been validated for inactivation of the virus causing COVID-19
  • Check with chemical suppliers to see if currently used compounds are on the list and if changes need to be made for them to be used effectively
  • To use heat, run utensils or equipment through a commercial dishwasher that will heat to 145°F (65°C) or higher for five minutes or longer. Alternatively, hot water maintained at or above 145°F (65°C) can be used.

HOW SHOULD SURFACES BE HANDLED?

  • EPA recommended commercial disinfectants should be used on the following as often as is practical:
    • Tables, chairs, counter, handrails, etc
    • All self-service surfaces, including: buffet/salad bar lines, shakers, bottles, condiments, etc.
    • Restroom surfaces, including: doorknobs, faucets, handles, etc.
  • Avoid wiping surfaces with water only; use a disinfectant.

HOW SHOULD SELF-SERVICE AREAS BE HANDLED?

  • Utensils in self-service areas should be changed as often as possible. Management should assess how frequently they are used and make decisions.
  • Consider moving self-serve items like condiments and utensils to behind the employee counter to minimize contact, if possible.

WHAT SHOULD BE DONE IF A GUEST IS DIAGNOSED WITH COVID-19?

  • Contact and coordinate with the health department, as they will want to trace both employee and guest contacts and can advise on guest messaging.
  • CDC recommends if a facility has a known case of COVID-19 in their restaurant they should close that area off and wait as long as practical to begin cleaning and disinfecting.
QR code link to foodsafety.ces.ncsu.edu

Stay informed: ext.vt.edu/covid-19updates
www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov
Updated April 27, 2020

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Publication Date

March 17, 2020