Monday 6 April 2020

Coronavirus questions, on plastic and in the freezer

Dear Blogger

More information from Roger Webber about how long the virus lasts on plastic and in the freezer.


One person asked if the virus could also stick to plastic bags making it a risk when they do their shopping and bring back food wrapped in plastic. I have just looked this up on the internet (search for covid-19 and plastic) and yes this is possible but how much this is a reality would need further testing. My advice if you want to be extra careful is to wash the plastic bag with the food inside in a bowl of washing up liquid as this is a soapy solution designed to break down fat. 

Another question was about the survival of covid-19 in freezers which you can also look up on the internet, as it does survive for quite a time in freezing conditions. The concern of my friend was that when food was brought back to room temperature then food stored for some time could have the virus and infect people. Here again it is a theoretical possibility but I would think unlikely in reality. If people are worried then they could similarly wash the storage bag after it has defrosted, with the food inside it, in a soapy solution of washing up liquid. Cooking will kill the virus if it is in the food.

Roger Webber