A new coronavirus strain known as SARS-CoV-2 has spread throughout the world. This virus is the causative agent for the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and spreads primarily through human-to-human transmission via infected droplets and aerosols generated by infected persons. While COVID-19 is a respiratory virus, the potential for transmission of SARS-CoV-2 via food is considered theoretically possible and remains a concern for Canadian consumers. We have conducted an exposure assessment of the likelihood of exposure of SARS-CoV-2 in Canadian food sources at the time of consumption. This article describes the exposure routes considered most relevant in the context of food contamination with SARS-CoV-2, including contaminated food of animal origin, other contaminated fresh foods, fomites and SARS-CoV-2 contaminated feces. The likelihood of foodborne infection of SARS-CoV-2 via the human digestive tract was also considered. Our analysis indicates that there is no evidence that foodborne transmission of SARS-CoV-2 has occurred and we consider the likelihood of contracting COVID-19 via food and food packaging in Canada as low to remote. Adherence to safe food practices and cleaning procedures would in any case prevent a potential foodborne infection with SARS-CoV-2.

A group of experts from all Canadian federal food safety partners was formed to monitor the potential issues relating to SARS-CoV-2 food contamination, to gather and consider all of the relevant evidence and to determine the impact for Canadian food safety. A comprehensive risk pathway was generated to consider the likelihood of a SARS-CoV-2 contamination event at any of the relevant steps of the food processing and handling chain, and potential for exposure and transmission of the virus to the consumer. The scientific evidence was reviewed and assessed for each event in the pathway, taking into consideration relevant elements that could increase or mitigate the risk of contamination. The advantage of having an event-wise contextualization of the SARS-CoV-2 transmission pathway through the food chain, is that it provides a systematic and consistent approach to evaluate any new data and communicate its importance and impact. The pathway also increases the objectivity and consistency of the assessment in a rapidly evolving and high-stakes situation.   Based on our review and analysis, there is currently no comprehensive epidemiological evidence of confirmed cases of SARS-CoV-2, or its variants, causing COVID-19 from transmission through food or food packaging. Considering the remote possibility of exposure through food, the likelihood of exposure by ingestion or contact with mucosa is considered negligible to very low and good hygiene practices during food preparation should continue to be followed.