The Indian Council of Medical Research clarified on Friday that consuming non-vegetarian food items will not cause coronavirus. ICMR serves as the apex medical research body in India and has been conducting tests to detect coronavirus across its network of labs at state and regional levels nationwide.
ICMR — Not Linked to Food
During a press conference, ICMR stated that this virus is not transmitted through food. Officials emphasised that people can safely consume chicken and other non-vegetarian products. This clarification emerged in response to widespread public concerns about eating non-vegetarian food during the coronavirus outbreak.
"We don't see the novel coronavirus getting transmitted through any specific food… this virus (COVID-19) is not linked to food. People can eat chicken."
— Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
ICMR clarifies — chicken consumption is safe during COVID-19
AIPBA Delegation Meets the Vice President
A delegation from the All India Poultry Breeders Association, led by Bahadur Ali, met with India's Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu. They highlighted problems affecting the poultry sector due to public fear and noted that misinformation was causing significant panic and reducing poultry product consumption.
"Fear is More Deadly than the Virus"
The Vice President referenced American biologist Dr Bruce Lipton's perspective, stating that psychological fear poses greater danger than the virus itself.
"Fear of coronavirus was more deadly than the virus itself."
— Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu (citing Dr Bruce Lipton)
He called for an end to rumour-mongering and recommended that ICMR issue an advisory to address public concerns about consuming chicken and eggs.
Government Action
The Minister of State for Finance and Corporate Affairs, Anurag Thakur, was asked to investigate the matter, as incorrect information could damage the poultry industry.