The Ministry of Health issued the Handbook of Health and Disease Prevention Field Operation for Earthquake Disasters in Sichuan Province, which particularly reminds victims and rescue workers to pay attention to food safety issues after the earthquake.

 

The Ministry of Health reminded residents and local rescue workers of the disaster areas that the food that could not be eaten were: food soaked by water (except canned food), poultry and livestock killed by earthquake, illness and unknown causes; vegetables and fruits that had been spoiled by water; food from unknown sources, food packaged in non-special food containers, and none. Foods with clear food labels, unknown food-like substances, severely moldy food, spoiled food, and wild mushrooms. Food safety in disaster areas should be treated with disinfection of drinking water, not drinking raw water, and priority should be given to clean water for collective meals. Food and raw materials should be kept in a ventilated and dry place to prevent mildew, insects and mice from encroaching on them. If possible, boil 1% alkaline water for 15-30 minutes or steam for 30 minutes.