The Union Ministry of Animal Husbandry has clarified that consumption of chicken will not cause coronavirus. The ministry commissioner, in a letter to the Poultry Federation of India, stated that there had been no reports as yet of novel Coronavirus (nCoV) transmitting through an animal source.
Official Communication
Animal Husbandry Commissioner Praveen Malik replied to an email received by Vijay Sardana, advisor, Poultry Federation of India, clarifying on the issue of the livestock product consumption vis-a-vis 2019 nCoV.
"The predominant route of transmission of 2019 nCoV appears to be human to human, as per World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE)" — though the virus may have had an animal source requiring further investigation.
— Praveen Malik, Animal Husbandry Commissioner
Government clarification on poultry consumption and coronavirus
No Evidence of Transmission
The commissioner further added that there was no evidence of nCoV being transmitted through poultry consumption. The letter also states that the 2003 SARS, MERS 2013 outbreak, or Corona associated common cold had no involvement of poultry or poultry products globally.
Safe to Consume
"Consumption of poultry and poultry products may be considered safe" — while following general hygiene principles per WHO or OIE suggestions.
— Praveen Malik, Animal Husbandry Commissioner