There has been a great deal in the news about the new strain of influenza which originated in Mexico. People around the world are highly concerned and rightly so. Information is coming in constantly and the story is continuing to evolve.

This is not a food safety issue – it is a respiratory health issue that is spread from person to person.

This new virus was labeled swine flu because it is similar to one commonly found in pigs …however this particular strain has never been reported in pigs. The World Animal Health Organization is advocating that the virus should more accurately be called H1N1.

Public health authorities around the world also agree that eating pork is not associated with this influenza subtype. According to the World Health Organization, there is no risk of infection from this virus from consumption of well-cooked pork and pork products.  

Some concern about the safety of pork products has initially been expressed around the world, especially pork products from the Mexico and the U.S.  While experts agree that this concern is scientifically unjustified, it is also natural.  The history of other outbreaks – bird flu, for example – shows that this kind of concern usually dissipates quickly as people get used to the evidence that the new risk doesn’t come from food.

Health authorities are advising people to wash hands thoroughly with soap and water on a regular basis and should seek medical attention if they develop any symptoms of influenza-like illness.

As a large food company that employs over 23,000 people we are monitoring this very closely. Updated information is available on the WHO website.