Coronavirus April 20, 2020

FDA Updates Guidelines On Whether You Should Wipe Down Groceries

MIAMI, FLORIDA - APRIL 13: Olga Jiminez stands behind a partial protective plastic screen and wears a mask and gloves as she works as a cashier at the Presidente Supermarket on April 13, 2020 in Miami, Florida. The employees at Presidente Supermarket, like the rest of America's grocery store workers, are on the front lines of the coronavirus pandemic, helping to keep the nation's residents fed. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

One of the most debated issues we’ve seen lately is whether you should wipe your groceries. The FDA released updated information saying it’s not necessary:

We want to reassure consumers that there is currently no evidence of human or animal food or food packaging being associated with transmission of the coronavirus that causes COVID-19. This particular coronavirus causes respiratory illness and is spread from person-to-person, unlike foodborne gastrointestinal or GI viruses, such as norovirus and hepatitis A that often make people ill through contaminated food.

And the CDC agrees writing, “There is no evidence that food or food packaging has been linked to getting sick from COVID-19.”

Instead, both health organizations stress hand washing. And it’s the same guidelines if you have groceries or take-out dropped off at your home, after bringing the food in wash your hands. And if you are picking up groceries or take-out in person after leaving the store, use hand sanitizer.

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