International authorities explain relationship between COVID-19 and food safety – future development of food industry in post-epidemic age

Currently, the COVID-19 epidemic has become a common challenge of the globe. All countries including China invested vast resources in epidemic control. Various scientific measures adopted by China are recognized by other countries. In the meantime, the spreading and control of COVID-19 involves all industries and all sectors of the social economy, including the food industry. On the one hand, WHO and authorities of some countries claimed the virus will not spread through food, but people still doubt about it; on the other hand, as the epidemic develops, the emergency guarantee function and future strategic reserve function of the food industry are highlighted. Scientists of food shall deeply think how to seek for opportunities and realize innovative development in the crisis in the post-epidemic age.

Viewpoint I: There is no scientific evidence about COVID-19 spreading through food

Viewpoint II: Mass food storage and unbalanced nutrition are shown in epidemic period

Viewpoint III: The global food industry is facing three challenges as affected by the epidemic

Challenge 1: The catering industry and medium and small enterprises are under hug impact

Challenge 2: Food safety and sanitation level will face higher requirements

Challenge 3: Demand of food e-commerce platform is surging, leading to supply pressure, lack of communication with consumers and lack of labors

Viewpoint IV: Seeking opportunities in crisis --- the food industry may usher in four opportunities in the post-epidemic age

Opportunity 1: Importance of food industry for national emergency guarantee is highlighted

Opportunity 2: Intelligent and information-based equipment will become the crucial point of food industry to cope to risks 

Opportunity 3:  “Improving immunity” creates new growth point for the special food industry

Opportunity 4: Concern for the health of the elderly becomes an important aspect for innovative development of the industry