Food Safety Experts Explain Risk Of Bird Flu From Eggs And Chicken
Experts clarify that bird flu cannot spread through properly cooked eggs or chicken, ensuring safe consumption.
As bird flu outbreaks continue to make headlines in various parts of the world, questions about food safety have surged, particularly regarding eggs and chicken. Health authorities and experts emphasize that proper handling and cooking are key to preventing transmission of the virus.
Bird flu, or avian influenza, primarily spreads through contact with infected birds’ saliva, feces, or secretions. Experts clarify that while the virus can contaminate raw poultry, there is no evidence that properly cooked eggs or chicken can transmit bird flu to humans. High temperatures during cooking effectively inactivate the virus.
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) advises consumers to maintain strict hygiene in kitchens. This includes washing hands after handling raw poultry, using separate utensils for raw and cooked foods, and ensuring meat and eggs are cooked thoroughly to safe internal temperatures.
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Eggs, in particular, should be cooked until both the yolk and white are firm. Avoiding raw or undercooked egg preparations like certain desserts or soft-boiled eggs is recommended during outbreak periods. Similarly, chicken should be cooked to at least 74°C (165°F) to eliminate pathogens.
While the risk of transmission via food is extremely low, experts warn that handling live or freshly slaughtered birds carries a higher risk of infection. Farmers, vendors, and poultry handlers are urged to use protective gear, maintain biosecurity measures, and report unusual bird deaths promptly.
Public awareness campaigns continue to focus on both food safety and early detection. Consumers are encouraged to stay informed, avoid panic, and follow recommended hygiene practices, ensuring that nutritious foods like eggs and chicken remain safe to eat even during bird flu outbreaks.
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