FOLLOWING the news of a coronavirus outbreak at a vegetable farm near Malvern, we have put together some advice on whether coronavirus can be transmitted through food.

According to government advice, it is very unlikely that you can catch coronavirus (COVID-19) from food. Cooking thoroughly will kill the virus.

The official government advice goes on to say: "COVID-19 is a respiratory illness. It is not known to be transmitted by exposure to food or food packaging.

"Everyone should wash their hands regularly with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds, to reduce the risk of illness.

"It is especially important to wash hands before handling food or eating."

The risk of coronavirus (COVID-19) cross-contamination to food and food packaging is very low.

Food businesses must ensure that they have the correct food hygiene and food safety processes in place and that these are being followed to protect their customers.

READ MORE: More than 70 workers at vegetable farm near Malvern test positive for coronavirus

Staff handling food in shops are required to maintain a high degree of personal cleanliness and wear suitable, clean clothing.

This includes regular hand washing to maintain good hygiene.

Food businesses are required to have a system for managing food safety in place, but this does not necessarily require staff to wear gloves when serving or handling food.

When you are buying loose foods such as fruit, vegetables, or bread in a bakery, try and only touch what you are going to buy.

Earlier today it was announced there had been an outbreak of coronavirus at a farm near Malvern.

The AS Green and Co farm at Mathon reported 73 workers had tested positive for the virus.

Around 200 key workers are employed to carry out picking and packing work at the site, with the workforce living in mobile homes based on the site.