Can mpox be transmitted through food?

The risk of mpox transmission through food is low. Currently, there is no evidence that food or food packaging is a likely source or route of transmission of the virus. Only bushmeat (meat from hunted wildlife in Africa) has been suspected as a source of mpox in human cases. Food (other than bushmeat) has never been identified as being associated with human cases of mpox. In addition, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) requires all meat to be imported only from SFA-accredited sources and there are no SFA-accredited sources of bushmeat.

Nevertheless, it is important to always adopt good personal hygiene and food safety measures. Individuals preparing food should ensure frequent hand washing with soap and water when handling food, ensure food is cooked thoroughly at high temperatures above 75°C and frequently wash and sanitise both equipment and premises such as all food contact surfaces and touchpoints, including counter tops, utensils and condiment containers.

For more tips, refer to SFA’s website .