COVID-19 (Coronavirus) advice

Updated: 2 February 2021

Australia is actively responding to an outbreak of respiratory illness caused by coronavirus (COVID-19).

There is no evidence to date to suggest that food is a source or route of transmission of the virus.

The NSW Government recommends that people follow national guidelines as this issue evolves.

The Australian Government’s Department of Health has established a website with up-to-date information on the virus and how you can reduce your risk of exposure. 

For consumers

Follow health advice and stay home if you are sick and seek medical attention.
 
There is no reason to avoid certain foods or specific cuisine as a result of COVID-19.
 
Good hygiene is important in helping protect yourself against infection and stop the virus from spreading. 
 
A food handler does not have to accept re-usable containers from customers, especially if they are dirty. More information can be found here.

For businesses and charities

All food businesses and charities in NSW are required to meet the requirements of the Food Standards Code. Follow health advice and stay home if you are sick and seek medical attention.

Good personal hygiene and food safety practices should always be employed, good hygiene and sanitation are important to avoid cross contamination between raw or undercooked foods and cooked or ready to eat foods in the kitchen.

You do not have to accept re-usable containers such as travel coffee mugs from customers, and shouldn't do so if the containers are dirty.

More information about COVID-19 for food businesses

COVID-19 awareness for food service is a free, voluntary online course developed for anyone working in NSW in food retail or food service.

What the Food Authority is doing

The NSW government is working with national and international agencies to provide the most up to date information as this issue is rapidly evolving. There is much more to learn about COVID-19 and features associated with the virus. Epidemiological and clinical investigations are ongoing.

As a precautionary measure the Food Authority has reviewed our Business Continuity Plans to ensure our agency can remain operational should the COVID-19 situation change. We encourage all food businesses to do the same to minimise the impact of COVID-19 in your business.