Freezing: An Effective Rhinovirus Killer? Ensuring Food Safety During a Cold
When you’re under the weather with a cold, you might wonder if preparing and freezing food could potentially spread the rhinovirus, the common cause of the common cold. This is a valid concern, especially if you’re cooking for others. The question then arises: does freezing kill the rhinovirus? And if so, can this method ensure food safety during a cold? Let’s delve into the science behind these questions to provide some clarity.
Understanding Rhinovirus
The rhinovirus is a type of virus that causes the common cold. It’s highly contagious and can survive on surfaces for up to 48 hours. The virus enters your body through your nose, eyes, or mouth when you come into contact with someone who’s sick or by touching contaminated surfaces.
Does Freezing Kill Rhinovirus?
According to scientific research, freezing does not kill rhinovirus. In fact, the virus can survive in a frozen state for a long period of time and become active again once thawed. A study published in the Journal of Medical Virology found that rhinoviruses can survive in temperatures as low as -20°C (-4°F).
Food Safety During a Cold
While freezing doesn’t kill the rhinovirus, there are steps you can take to ensure food safety when you have a cold. The most effective way to prevent the spread of the virus is through good hygiene practices.
Wash your hands: Before and after preparing food, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.
Avoid touching your face: Try to avoid touching your nose, mouth, and eyes when preparing food to prevent the spread of the virus.
Clean surfaces: Regularly clean and disinfect kitchen surfaces, especially after preparing food.
Conclusion
While freezing does not kill the rhinovirus, it doesn’t mean that food prepared by someone with a cold is unsafe to eat. By practicing good hygiene, you can significantly reduce the risk of spreading the virus. Remember, the best way to prevent the spread of the common cold is by washing your hands regularly, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and staying home when you’re sick.
