COVID-19 FAQ for Grocery Stores: Cleaning and Disinfection

There is no CDC report that COVD-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, which can be 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 disinfectants are on the lists, effective 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 AND SELF-SERVICE AREAS BE HANDLED?

• EPA recommended commercial disinfectants should be used on the following as often as is practical:
  • Shopping carts, shopping baskets and power scooters
  • Self-check out lines, counters, cafe areas (tables, chairs,
  • All self-service surfaces, including: buffet/salad bar lines, shakers, bottles, condiment stations, etc.
  • Restroom surfaces, including: doorknobs, faucets, handles, etc.
• Avoid wiping surfaces with water only; use a disinfectant.
• 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.

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