Does heat destroy norovirus?

Norovirus, often referred to as the stomach flu, is a highly contagious virus that causes gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestines. The symptoms of norovirus include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and diarrhea.

One common question about norovirus is whether heat can destroy it. The answer is yes, but it requires a high temperature. Noroviruses are relatively resistant to heat and can survive temperatures as high as 145°F. This means that simply warming or lightly cooking food is not enough to kill the virus.

In the food industry, it’s recommended to cook food, especially shellfish, thoroughly to an internal temperature of at least 145°F to ensure that any potential norovirus is killed. However, it’s important to note that quick steaming processes may not heat foods enough to kill noroviruses.

In addition to cooking food thoroughly, it’s also important to practice good hygiene to prevent the spread of norovirus. This includes washing hands well with soap and water, especially before handling food, and cleaning and disinfecting surfaces and objects that may have come into contact with the virus.

In conclusion, while heat can destroy norovirus, it requires a high temperature and thorough cooking. Good hygiene practices are also crucial in preventing the spread of this highly contagious virus.