Bird Flu Does Not Affect Food Safety, Study

Bird flu has been spreading in the US, and the last week avian influenza was reported for the first time in lowa at a turkey barn in Burna Vista County.

Since the virus can also affect humans, citizens are under a fear to consume meat and eggs. The disease is caused by an influenza virus that can infect farmed poultry, and is also carried by migratory birds such as ducks, geese and shorebirds.

However, a group of food safety experts from the US- An Lowa State University reported that avian influenza does not impact the foods they eat. The virus can affect humans, only when the latter is in very close direct contact with the infected bird.

Angela Shaw, assistant professor in food science and human nutrition and extension specialist in food safety said, "Consumers should feel safe to eat properly cooked and prepared meat and eggs from the poultry".

Miss Angela Shaw commented: "Avian influenza is not a food borne pathogen. It cannot be contracted from eating properly cooked poultry meat and eggs". She further said that the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) position is also that properly cooked poultry and eggs pose no threat.