Examination of SARS-CoV-2 Detection Methods and Contamination Status on the Surface of Commercial Vegetables and Fruits

This study investigated the effective detection methods and contamination status of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) on the surface of commercially available vegetables and fruits. SARS-CoV-2 RNA was detected by quantitative real-time RT-PCR. A comparison of swabbing methods using three types of materials and five wiping techniques revealed the highest recovery rate when using a polyester swab, wiping in four directions and suspending the swab in PBS after each swabbing direction. The recovery rate of the method was 8-26% on the surfaces of five different types of commercially available vegetables and fruits. Examination of effective washing for removing SARS-CoV-2 from the surface of eggplants showed that >90% of the virus could be removed by water wiping or scrubbing. A total of 90 commercially available vegetables (45 cucumbers and 45 tomatoes) purchased between June and October 2023 were tested to determine the status of SARS-CoV-2 contamination. Although the virus RNA was detected from only one cucumber purchased in August, the number of infectious viruses could not be determined. Results demonstrated that commercially available vegetables have low risks as a source of COVID-19 infection. Preventive measures such as practicing appropriate respiratory etiquette may contribute to the prevention of SARS-CoV-2 contamination in food products. Furthermore, washing the produce with water and basic infection control measures, including hand hygiene and mask wearing, are essential to reduce the risk of infection through food.