What is the best approach to prevent foodborne illnesses caused by viruses like norovirus?

The best approach to prevent foodborne illnesses caused by viruses like norovirus is through ensuring proper sanitation and hygiene practices. This is crucial because norovirus is primarily transmitted from person to person or through contaminated surfaces and food. Proper handwashing, especially after using the restroom and before handling food, plays a significant role in preventing the spread of this virus.

Additionally, maintaining clean food preparation areas, using sanitized utensils, and ensuring that food workers follow hygiene protocols help minimize the risk of contamination. While cooking food thoroughly can eliminate certain pathogens, norovirus is not destroyed through cooking, making hygiene and sanitation practices essential in controlling its spread.

Using pasteurized foods, while beneficial for certain pathogens, does not specifically address the transmission methods of norovirus. Washing food products can help remove some contaminants but may not effectively eliminate viral particles, emphasizing the importance of hygiene practices as a primary preventative measure.