News Articles

Stay up-to-date with all the latest coronavirus news and insights about the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on the food industry.

ood businesses must continue to practice health and safety protocols to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.
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New Habits Food Businesses Should Never Break

Food businesses have incorporated many new health and safety protocols in order to keep their staff and customers safe. They also have adhered to strict regulations from governmental bodies as...

01 September 2020
3 min read
The demand for robot technology is increasing in the food industry due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Pandemic Increases Demand for Robots in Kitchens

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced food businesses to adapt their business operations in order to keep staff and customers safe. Many food businesses have reopened after temporary closures, and are...

18 August 2020
2 min read
US restaurants have gained back half of their lost jobs.
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Restaurant Industry Sees Jobs Returning

According to recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the US restaurant industry has gained back 2.9 million jobs. This past June, restaurants have added nearly 1.5 million...

04 August 2020
2 min read
Food businesses must prepare for fluctuating lockdowns.
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Food Businesses Should Prepare for Fluctuating Lockdowns

Many food businesses have been given permission to reopen to the public in recent weeks as long as specific conditions are met and COVID-19 regulations are followed. These reopenings have...

21 July 2020
4 min read
Face shields have some benefits that cannot be achieved with face masks.
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Are Face Shields Better than Face Masks?

Face masks are quickly becoming a mandatory requirement for indoor public places in many countries. Food businesses that have reopened are purchasing the personal protective equipment (PPE) for staff in...

07 July 2020
3 min read
Food businesses must consider the pros and cons of making face masks mandatory for customers.
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No mask, no service?

Face masks have become a highly debated topic during the pandemic, particularly now that food businesses are beginning to reopen their doors. Some governments are making face masks mandatory in...

02 July 2020
4 min read
Survey results show that many food businesses are hesitant to reopen.
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Surveys Indicate Restaurants Hesitant to Reopen

A recently released report has revealed some startling figures about food businesses as reopenings begin in the United States. A survey was conducted with 3,800 restaurant operators in the United...

25 June 2020
2 min read
As food businesses continue to reopen, open communication is key.
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Communication is Key for Reopening Success

The key to the success of any food business is consistent and clear communication with customers. As food businesses reopen throughout the world, particularly in the United States, Canada, Australia...

23 June 2020
2 min read
Viruses can often lay dormant while frozen and then begin infecting a host once defrosted.
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Possible Coronavirus Transmission Linked to Frozen Food

In Tianjin city just outside of Beijing, a coronavirus case is leading experts to question whether the patient contracted COVID-19 from frozen fish. This is a worrying turn of events...

19 June 2020
1 min read
Technology is proving to be a way forward in the ‘new normal’ for the food businesses.
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How Technology Will Change Food Businesses Post-Pandemic

As many food businesses around the world reopen to the public, there are questions about what the future of the food industry will look like, and how food businesses will...

17 June 2020
3 min read
To-go food businesses are finding it challenging to keep customers and staff physically distanced.
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To-go Food Businesses Adapting to 'New Normal'

As food businesses around the world begin to reopen to the public, they are adapting to the ‘new normal’ of operations in different ways. How food businesses are adapting is...

08 June 2020
2 min read
A recent survey by The NDP Group reveals good hygiene and trust as important factors on where to eat post lockdown.
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Trust and hygiene biggest issues for restaurants after COVID-19

June 1 — A recent survey by The NDP Group in the United Kingdom — the COVID-19 British Foodservice Sentiment Study — has revealed some key figures for food businesses...

03 June 2020
1 min read
Maintaining physical distancing measures is a requirement for reopening in many countries.
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Readying Restaurants for Physical Distancing

Food businesses that are permitted to reopen their doors to the public are faced with a myriad of restrictions and regulations that must be followed and upheld. The biggest of...

01 June 2020
3 min read
2020 purchasing data reveals that some U.S. restaurants are seeing large jumps in sales.
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Restaurant Reopenings Elicit Varied Responses and Challenges

May 26, 2020 — As restaurants slowly begin to reopen in areas in the United States, Australia and Canada, some are beginning to see the return of sales and a...

27 May 2020
1 min read
Starbucks CEO wants to move away from having stores in malls.
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Starbucks to Limit Mall Locations

May 26, 2020 — In a letter to partners on Thursday, Starbucks CEO Kevin Johnson announced that over the past week the company has regained 60-65% of comparable store sales...

26 May 2020
1 min read
Twelve McDonald’s stores in Victoria, Australia have been forced to close after a delivery driver tested positive for COVID-19.
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Asymptomatic Delivery Driver Causes McDonald’s Closures

May 18, 2020 - Around 1000 McDonald’s staff in Victoria, Australia, have been forced to take unpaid leave after an asymptomatic driver infected with COVID-19 made deliveries to twelve stores...

18 May 2020
1 min read
Restaurants and cafes are starting to open (with restrictions) in many places.
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COVID-19 Reopening: Update for Australia, Canada, UK and US

May 13 2020 - The impact of the coronavirus pandemic has hit the hospitality industry hard. Since March, most venues have had to close their doors and stop serving dine-in...

14 May 2020
2 min read
New Zealand hospitality businesses could open as early as next week if the ‘Three S’ guidelines can be followed.
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New Zealand Reveals ‘Three S’ Rule for Reopening Restaurants

May 7, 2020 - New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced today the rules under which hospitality businesses will be allowed to reopen to customers. Such businesses could be allowed...

07 May 2020
1 min read
Our food delivery habits have changed during the coronavirus pandemic.
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What Customers Are Ordering for Delivery During the Pandemic

Food delivery businesses are noticing changes in the way we’re eating during the COVID-19 crisis. We’re eating different foods at different times to usual, and our choices appear to be...

06 May 2020
2 min read
More US states are allowing restaurants to reopen this week.
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Week of May 4: Where Food Service Businesses Can Reopen

May 4, 2020 — After restrictions were eased for some food businesses last week in some countries, discussions are continuing among many governments about where to ease more food service...

04 May 2020
1 min read
Staff working in the food retail sector need support to maintain their mental health during these stressful times.
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How to Reduce Anxiety in Food Retail Workers

In many regions, food retail services have been declared essential services during the COVID-19 pandemic. As an essential service, food retailers such as grocery stores and supermarkets must continue to...

30 April 2020
2 min read
Food businesses in some US states can begin reopening this week.
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Update: Where Restrictions are being Lifted for Food Services

April 28, 2020 — While the COVID-19 pandemic continues worldwide, some countries are beginning to see a reduction in cases and deaths as a result of the virus. This has...

30 April 2020
1 min read
Restaurants are voicing their dissatisfaction with the commission figures they are being charged by third-party delivery apps.
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Debates Persist about Food Delivery App Fees for Restaurants

April 27, 2020 — Several weeks of the COVID-19 pandemic have passed and food service businesses are continuing to struggle as they try and find ways to make ends meet...

27 April 2020
1 min read
It’s important to remember COVID-19 safety protocols when serving elderly and vulnerable customers.
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Keeping Employees Safe While Helping Elderly Customers

The coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 and the disease it causes, COVID-19, are particularly harmful to elderly people. This has become evident as the virus continues to spread around the world and we...

24 April 2020
2 min read
Survey data of the US and Canadian food service industry reveal major losses.
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North American Food Sector Decimated by Coronavirus

One of the hardest hit industries during the coronavirus pandemic has been the food service sector. Across the US and Canada, restaurants, bars, pubs and any food business that does...

22 April 2020
1 min read
Food retail services have gone through many phases since the pandemic started.
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Food Retail Has Evolved Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic

The coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 and the disease it causes, COVID-19, has been spreading worldwide since the beginning of this year. The past month in particular has seen the virus spread rapidly,...

21 April 2020
6 min read
Food manufacturers, such as Campbell Soup Company and Kraft Heinz Canada, are working vigorously to produce adequate supply for the growing demand in their products.
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Canadian Food Plants Working Non-Stop to Meet Surge in Demands

April 20, 2020 — Major household names in the food industry, such as Campbell Soup Company and Kraft Heinz Canada, are working vigorously to ensure that they are producing adequate...

20 April 2020
1 min read
Current measures taken to protect grocery workers may not be enough with thousands still falling ill due to the coronavirus.
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Should Customers be Banned from Grocery Stores to Prevent Coronavirus Deaths?

April 20, 2020 - Around the world, concerns are being raised about the health and safety of grocery store workers after a number of coronavirus deaths were attributed to being...

20 April 2020
2 min read
The information about the effectiveness of face masks has been confusing since the pandemic began.
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Can Face Masks Save Food Retail Workers Lives?

April 19, 2020 - Food retail workers are at the front-line of the coronavirus pandemic with many workers coming into contact with hundreds of customers every day. In the US...

19 April 2020
2 min read
The Australian hospitality industry is poised to be the most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Report Indicates Australian Hospitality Industry to be the Hardest Hit

April 20, 2020 — As the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to reveal themselves around the world, a newly released report anticipates some dramatic job losses in Australia in...

18 April 2020
1 min read
Starbucks stores may begin reopening for to-go orders in the near future.
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Starbucks Announces Plan to Reopen in US

April 17, 2020 — In a letter released on their website, Starbucks CEO Kevin Johnson has announced the coffee company’s framework to reopen stores in the United States. The letter...

17 April 2020
1 min read
US food banks are running out of supply and having to purchase food to keep up with demand.
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US Food Banks Drowning During Pandemic

April 17, 2020 — As millions of Americans find themselves without jobs due to COVID-19, many are struggling to pay their bills and put food on the table. Since the...

17 April 2020
1 min read
Extra precautions need to be taken in staff canteens to prevent the spread of COVID-19
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COVID-19 Safety in Staff Canteens

April 16, 2020 — While much of the global workforce is laid off or working from home, essential workers in food retail, food processing and health and community services are...

16 April 2020
1 min read
Food businesses need to understand the steps to take if an employee displays COVID-19 symptoms in the workplace.
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Food Workers & COVID-19 Illness in the Workplace

April 16, 2020 — As the number of people infected with COVID-19 continues to soar, focus is shifting on how to ensure minimal disruption to the food supply chain if...

16 April 2020
2 min read
The World Health Organization (WHO) ran a webinar this week to answer the food industry’s most pressing COVID-19 questions.
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WHO Answers Urgent Food Industry Questions about COVID-19

April 15, 2020 — The webinar was hosted by Sarah Hess from the Health Emergencies Programme at the World Health Organization. The panellists were WHO food safety specialists Professor Alan...

15 April 2020
6 min read
The food supply chain in the United States is fighting an uphill battle.
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US Food Supply Chain Struggling Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

April 15, 2020 — As the coronavirus continues to spread throughout the United States, experts are acknowledging that the US food supply chain could take a big hit over the...

15 April 2020
1 min read
Extra precautions need to be taken when receiving food deliveries during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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WHO Advice for Receiving Food Deliveries During COVID-19

April 15, 2020 — The guidelines released by the WHO explain that food businesses need to focus on preventing the SARS -CoV-2 coronavirus from entering the food premises. The only...

15 April 2020
1 min read
Several antimicrobial agents have been tested against other coronaviruses and have proven to be the most effective cleaning products at rendering viruses inactive.
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Cleaning Products That Stop Coronavirus In Its Tracks

Although there is a lack of evidence about the effectiveness of cleaning products against the novel 2019 coronavirus, several antimicrobial agents have been tested against other coronaviruses and have proven...

15 April 2020
1 min read
GMB is advocating for the protection of food workers of large food retailers.
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UK Union Demands Government and Retailers Protect Workers

April 15, 2020 — GMB, a UK union for food producers,is calling on the Government and some big players in the food industry to come together for better treatment of...

15 April 2020
1 min read
The Government of Canada has announced $50 million in assistance to the food production and processing sectors.
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Canadian Government Pledges $50M for Food Supply Chain

April 15, 2020 — It has become increasingly evident over the past few weeks that the food supply chain in Canada is in a precarious position. The pandemic is putting...

15 April 2020
1 min read
The CFIA will receive funding to support operations during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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CFIA Receives Financial Support From Canadian Government

April 14, 2020 — The Canadian Food Inspection agency has announced that the Government of Canada will be providing $20 million in funding to the CFIA in order to protect...

14 April 2020
1 min read
There are measures a business can take to ease the worries of customers during the coronavirus crisis.
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What Can Customer-Facing Staff Do to Ease COVID-19 Worries?

The customer-facing staff in a food business play a vital part in the business’ success. This is because front-of-house or delivery staff are the face of the business and interact...

14 April 2020
2 min read
GAIN has identified key areas of the food system that need to be addressed.
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COVID-19 Pandemic Reveals Vulnerability of Food System

April 13, 2020 — In a report by the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), the organization brings to light some of the biggest threats to the US food system...

13 April 2020
1 min read
Restaurants are switching to selling food items to the public to make a profit.
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Switching to Grocery Sales is Helping US Restaurants

April 13, 2020 — As restaurants across the US have been forced to close their premises to the pubic, many are facing a similar question — what do we do...

13 April 2020
1 min read
Poundland and B&M have both closed multiple locations in shopping centres.
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European Food Retailers in Malls Pressured to Close

April 9, 2020 — As many businesses across Europe have closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some businesses have been deemed essential and remain open. These businesses include supermarkets and...

12 April 2020
1 min read
Austria has made it compulsory for shoppers to wear masks at grocery and drug stores.
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Austria Imposes Mask Rule for Shops

April 9, 2020 — Many countries are still trying to decide whether or not masks should be simply a recommendation or a requirement when going to stores. For Austria,the decision...

11 April 2020
1 min read
Many people in China are worried about the security of the country’s food supply.
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Food Supply Concerns in China Despite Return to Business as Usual

April 9, 2020 — As the Chinese government has encouraged a “return to normalcy” throughout the country, concerns are rising about the security of the food supply and the reopening...

09 April 2020
1 min read
Without recovered paper and cardboard, a shortage of cardboard boxes essential for takeaway cartons and medicine packages is looming.
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A National Cardboard Shortage Threatens the UK

A national cardboard shortage may soon hit the UK, warns the Recycling Association, the industry body that represents organisations from the collection and processing sector. In many parts of the...

09 April 2020
1 min read
The COVID-19 pandemic could lead to world hunger doubling in the next few months.
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Food Companies Warn of World Hunger Doubling During COVID-19

April 9, 2020 — In “A Call to Action For World Leaders”, the Food and Land Use Coalition urge world leaders to keep world trade open in order to prevent...

09 April 2020
1 min read
Toast announced on their website that 50% of staff have been laid off due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Restaurant Management Platform Lays Off 50% of Staff

April 8, 2020 — In a letter released on the company website, CEO Chris Comparato announced Toast’s decision to lay off 50% of its workers amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Toast,...

08 April 2020
1 min read
The Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union is slamming the poultry industry for its slow reaction to COVID-19.
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Union Slams U.S. Poultry Industry for Slow Response to COVID-19

April 8, 2020 — The Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU) in the United States has actively criticized the poultry industry for its response to the threat of COVID-19...

08 April 2020
1 min read
A newly formed coalition hopes to help struggling independent restaurants and workers.
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Newly Formed Coalition Fights for Restaurant Aid

April 7, 2020 — There are more than 500,000 independent restaurants throughout the United States that are currently being directly affected by the coronavirus crisis. Not only are the restaurants...

07 April 2020
1 min read
Food businesses continue to be closed to the public and struggle to pay the bills.
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Rent Strike by Canadian Restaurants on the Horizon

April 7, 2020 — As food retail businesses such as restaurants, bars and pubs continue to remain closed due to COVID-19, many are struggling to pay the incoming bills. This...

07 April 2020
1 min read
Consumers’ buying habits have changed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Food Production Shifts to Basics Due to COVID-19

April 6, 2020 — The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the food industry are becoming more visible with each day that passes. These effects are now being felt by...

06 April 2020
1 min read
Without restaurants to purchase food, food waste is on the rise.
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Food Waste Rising During COVID-19 Pandemic

April 6, 2020 — Food and commodity shortages are not as much of a concern during the current COVID-19 but rather the significant increase in food waste becoming evident across...

06 April 2020
1 min read
The food industry in New York City is highly profitable, but struggling as of late.
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NYC Restaurants Significantly Struggling Due to COVID-19

April 6, 2020 — The recent figures reported by the New York Post illustrate some startling trends: there are about 25,000 dine-in restaurants in New York City that are currently...

06 April 2020
1 min read
Research indicates that the public still trusts the food industry.
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Despite COVID-19 Struggles, Trust in Food Industry Remains

April 3, 2020 — IGD, a UK research and training charity, released new figures that show just how much UK shoppers place trust in the food industry during the COVID-19...

06 April 2020
1 min read
Whole Foods employees organised a global 'sickout' protest.
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Strike Action By Whole Foods Workers Over Coronavirus Safety Concerns

April 4 - Whole Foods employees organised a global ‘sickout’ protest on Tuesday, demanding the Amazon subsidiary gives guaranteed paid leave for all Whole Food workers who isolate or self-quarantine...

04 April 2020
1 min read
Thousands of Canadians rely on food banks every year, and this will increase during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Canadian Food Banks Struggling; Prime Minister Commits $100M to Help

April 3, 2020 — On Friday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced that the Canadian federal government will be providing $100 million to food banks across the country. This is in...

03 April 2020
1 min read
Australian employees are suffering greatly from the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Australian Food Workers Among Those Now Entitled to ‘Pandemic Leave’

April 3, 2020 — In a bid to help workers throughout Australia, the Minister for Industrial Relations, Christian Porter, announced changes to many of Australia’s existing employee awards. In particular,...

03 April 2020
1 min read
IFT20 is an annual event that draws in all types of members from the food industry.
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IFT20 Goes Virtual due to COVID-19

April 3, 2020 — The Institute of Food Technologists’ annual event and food expo for 2020 was set to be held in Chicago from July 12—15. Due to the ongoing...

03 April 2020
1 min read
April 15th has been deemed Takeout Day.
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April 15th is Canada Takeout Day

April 3, 2020 — Canada Takeout has announced that Wednesday, April 15th is Takeout Day and they are encouraging Canadians across the country to order takeout or delivery in order...

03 April 2020
1 min read
The coronavirus can live on objects and surfaces for extended periods of time, including plastic.
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Praise and Criticism about Plastic use During COVID-19

April 2, 2020 — The coronavirus has been found to survive for varying lengths of time on different surfaces and materials. Its ability to survive on surfaces has led to...

02 April 2020
1 min read
Many food businesses have closed down amid the COVID-19 pandemic, some of them closing permanently.
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Unprecedented Job Losses Across Canada Since March 1

April 2, 2020 — A nationwide survey conducted between March 25 and 29 by Restaurants Canada has revealed that 800,000 food service jobs have been lost due to the current...

02 April 2020
1 min read
Food service businesses could see positive changes from NSW Government orders.
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New Orders for NSW Food Businesses Amid COVID-19 Crisis

April 2, 2020 — The Environmental Planning and Assessment (COVID-19 Development – Takeaway Food and Beverages) Order 2020 includes extending the ability of restaurants to serve take-out food. The orders...

02 April 2020
1 min read
The food industry is being decimated as the result of COVID-19.
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Report Predicts Grocery Store Profits Up, Restaurants Down This Year

April 2, 2020 — As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have sweeping effects across the food industry, a recent report indicates that sales will not be where they were forecasted...

02 April 2020
1 min read
With more time on their hands thanks to coronavirus, consumers have been hoarding bags of the essential baking ingredient.
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Millers Are Working 24/7 To Avoid a Flour Shortage

April 2, 2020 - Since the COVID-19 outbreak and subsequent lockdown, people in the UK have been panic buying loo rolls, dried pasta, tinned foods, shower gel and - flour....

02 April 2020
1 min read
The costs of the COVID-19 pandemic may find their way down to consumers.
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Food prices Predicted to Rise During COVID-19 Pandemic

April 1, 2020 — An update on the food price forecast was issued this week, taking into account the changes that have occurred as a result of the COVID-19 crisis....

01 April 2020
1 min read
Temporary measures to official controls are aiming to keep the food supply chain safe.
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EU Loosens Grip on Food Safety Controls

April 1, 2020 — In response to growing concerns on how to operate during the COVID-19 pandemic, the European Commission has announced it will allow for flexibility to conduct official...

01 April 2020
1 min read
Food retailers are going to extra lengths to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
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Large US food retailers use plexiglass shields to protect from COVID-19

April 1, 2020 — As the threat from coronavirus grows throughout the US, food retailers are having to implement extra measures in order to keep customers and staff safe from...

01 April 2020
1 min read
Food delivery services like Uber Eats are in increasing demand during the pandemic.
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Uber Eats’ Worldwide Partnerships Help Customer During Pandemic

April 1, 2020 — Uber Eats announced today that it has partnered with different companies in France, Spain and Brazil to assist more customers during the COVID-19 pandemic. The demands...

01 April 2020
1 min read
Knowing how to support your staff properly can help to reduce the occurrence of stress, depression and anxiety.
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Managing Anxiety in the Food Service Sector

The COVID-19 pandemic is having far-reaching effects on the food industry, particularly for food service businesses. These businesses, such as restaurants, bars, and fast food chains, are closing down temporarily...

01 April 2020
2 min read
The risk of catching coronavirus from food remains very low.
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Why is Food Low Risk for Coronavirus?

For evidence that food is an unlikely source or route of transmission of the virus, we can look to previous outbreaks of related coronaviruses, such as the (SARS-CoV) outbreak in...

01 April 2020
1 min read
Food retail businesses need to acknowledge the risk of spreading COVID-19 within the establishment.
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How Can Supermarket Chains Lower the Risk of COVID-19?

The COVID-19 pandemic that is sweeping the world is having unprecedented effects on the food industry. In many countries — such as the United States, Australia, Canada and countries in...

01 April 2020
3 min read
The initiative encourages people to order takeout or delivery to help struggling food businesses.
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The Great American Takeout Helps Restaurants During COVID-19

Restaurants across the US launched an initiative to raise awareness of the plight faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. The initiative, called ‘The Great American Takeout’, encouraged people at home to...

31 March 2020
1 min read
On Friday, 80 percent of workers for a warehouse that supplies Coles Supermarkets went on strike.
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Australian Warehouse Workers Strike Demanding Proper COVID-19 Safety Measures

March 31, 2020 — On Friday, 80 percent of workers for a warehouse that supplies Coles Supermarkets went on strike. The strike action occurred at the Coles distribution centre in...

31 March 2020
1 min read
Grocery store sales in the UK have surged by 20.6%.
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Record Grocery Sales in the UK

March 31, 2020 — Recent figures from data firm Kantar show that grocery store sales in the UK have surged by 20.6% in the four weeks leading up to March...

31 March 2020
1 min read
In households where someone has recently traveled abroad, 75% visited a grocery store upon returning.
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Grocery Workers at COVID-19 Risk from Returning Travelers

March 31, 2020 — A recent study by Innovative Research Group (IRG) has revealed a startling figure: In households where someone has recently traveled abroad, 75% visited a grocery store...

31 March 2020
1 min read
Closing temporarily, even for a short time, can be extremely costly for smaller businesses.
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UK Food and Drink Businesses Need Support During Shutdown

March 30, 2020 — The food and drink industry in the UK is already displaying the detrimental effects of food businesses shutting down temporarily. Larger food chains and franchises are...

30 March 2020
1 min read
The COVID-19 pandemic has the potential for a serious and sustained global economic downturn.
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EU Food and Drink Unions Call for Financial Support

March 30, 2020 — Late last week, the European Federation of Food, Agriculture and Tourism Trade Unions (EFFAT) and FoodDrinkEurope (FDE) released a statement asking for urgent response to help...

30 March 2020
1 min read
Instacart is a food delivery service in which customers can shop from their local grocery stores online.
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Instacart workers poised to strike if demands not met

March 30, 2020 — During the COVID-19 pandemic, one thing has become clear: Food retail businesses like grocery stores and supermarkets are essential services and the public is increasingly reliant...

30 March 2020
1 min read
The coronavirus was determined to live on cardboard for up to 24 hours.
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COVID-19 Surviving on Cardboard Prompts Fears About Food Delivery

March 30, 2020 — With people being concerned about going into public, an increase in food delivery demand is being seen across the food industry. But food delivery is not...

30 March 2020
1 min read
There are actions that every food worker can take to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
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How Food Workers Can Stop the Spread of COVID-19

There are 3 main ways that the coronavirus spreads between humans: Through close contact such as hugging, kissing or shaking hands Through droplets spread by coughing or sneezing By touching...

29 March 2020
1 min read
Food businesses need to enact certain precautions when transitioning to food delivery.
insights

How can food businesses transition staff to food delivery?

Food businesses around the world are making the decision to provide delivery service in order to continue to operate during the COVID-19 pandemic. When switching to a home delivery business...

29 March 2020
3 min read
Food retail stores are being affected by government mandates stating they must reduce customer capacity.
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How Can Food Retail Businesses Navigate Reduced Capacity?

Physical or social distancing is at the top of everyone’s mind recently as governments push for the public to maintain at least a 1 meter distance from each other. Physical...

28 March 2020
2 min read
It is essential that food businesses take proper measures to reduce the risks that come with additional sanitation methods.
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Increased Sanitization Due to COVID-19: What Are the Risks?

The coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 and the disease it causes, COVID-19, are extremely contagious and infecting people around the world at a rapid rate. Due to the virus’ ability to easily spread...

28 March 2020
2 min read
Some farmers struggling to conduct farming with restrictions like social distancing in place.
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Disruptions to Food Production Could Mean Struggles for Certain US Food Businesses

March 27, 2020 — Across the US, farmers are beginning to ramp up their preparations for the growing season during the continual COVID-19 pandemic. Agriculture is considered an essential service...

27 March 2020
1 min read
Recipe box companies are dealing with unprecedented sales during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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UK Recipe Box Companies Thriving During COVID-19 Pandemic

UK recipe box companies thriving during COVID-19 pandemic March 27, 2020 — As many food business throughout the UK struggle with temporary closures, reduced operating hours and altering their service...

27 March 2020
1 min read
The public has resorted to panic buying because they have lost the ability to plan and just don’t know what two weeks of food looks like.
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Changes to Canadian Grocery Stores Could Be Here to Stay

March 27, 2020 — As the number of COVID-19 cases increases daily, many food businesses have been instructed to close their doors temporarily to the public across Canada. On the...

27 March 2020
1 min read
Shoppers are now responsible for packing their own grocery bags at supermarket, Coles.
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Australian Supermarkets Impose Strict Rules for Shopping Bags

March 27, 2020 — As the COVID-19 pandemic spreads worldwide, food retailers in Australia are responding to the crisis by imposing strict measures to help curb the spread of the...

27 March 2020
1 min read
The NSW Food Authority emailed food businesses throughout the state with guidance on how to navigate the COVID-19 crisis.
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NSW Food Authority Releases COVID-19 Guidance for Food Businesses

March 26, 2020 - The NSW Food Authority emailed food businesses throughout the state today with guidance on how to navigate the COVID-19 crisis. The published information outlines the food...

26 March 2020
1 min read
A panel of experts has warned that Australia's death toll will rise if a full lockdown is not enforced.
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Complete lockdown of Australia urged as COVID-19 continues to spread

Tasmanian Senator Jacqui Lambie has been begging Prime Minister Morrison to lock Australia down before the weekend, with no success. The prime minister has been unwilling to move on the...

26 March 2020
1 min read
Agrimetrics has warned that the food sector in the UK is going to hard hit by the COVID-19 crisis.
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AI Company Warns of Food Shortage in UK

Agrimetrics, a tech company backed by the UK government, has stated that the food sector is going to be particularly hard hit. The company has analysed data in a bid...

26 March 2020
1 min read
Reducing the capacity or temporarily closing a food business will reduce the public’s ability to gather in large groups and hopefully put a stop to the spread of the coronavirus.
insights

What Should You Do Before Closing Your Business Temporarily?

Closing your food businesses for the foreseeable future is never an easy decision to make. As the COVID-19 pandemic takes hold around the world, governments — particularly in the United...

25 March 2020
2 min read
Food businesses need to take precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19 on plastic and steel surfaces
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Study finds coronavirus most stable on plastic and steel

How long can coronavirus survive on surfaces? To address valid concerns about the safety of groceries and other items from food retail businesses, it is vital to understand a recent...

25 March 2020
1 min read
Starbucks confirmed this week that 95 percent of its stores in China have reopened
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Starbucks Reopens Stores in China Coronavirus Epicenter

March 24, 2020 - Giving hope to the global hospitality industry, Starbucks confirmed this week that around 95 percent of its stores in China have reopened. The decision to reopen...

24 March 2020
1 min read
The food industry is already feeling the economic impact caused by COVID-19.
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What are the Economic Impacts of COVID-19 on Food Businesses?

Loss of customers One of the most visual representations of the damage COVID-19 is doing to the food industry is the lack of customers in restaurants, fast food hubs, bars...

23 March 2020
2 min read
Improved sanitation is the primary way to stop the spread of the coronavirus that causes COVID-19.
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COVID-19 Increased Sanitation Measures for Food Businesses

Step 1. Review Your Cleaning & Sanitizing Schedule A regular cleaning and sanitizing schedule for a food business includes instructions for cleaning and sanitizing food contact surfaces such as work...

22 March 2020
2 min read
Major supermarkets and grocery stores in Canada are implementing significant measures to protect workers and customers from the spread of COVID-19.
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Canadian Grocery Stores Introduce Plexiglass Protection

March 21, 2020 - Major supermarkets and grocery stores in Canada are implementing significant measures to protect workers and customers from the spread of COVID-19. Sobeys Announces Plexiglass Protection On...

21 March 2020
1 min read
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to take hold, many food businesses are switching to a delivery or take-out model.
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COVID-19 Safety Tips for Deliveries and Take-Out

1. Separate your Staff Have two separate teams that never work together. That way, if one of your team members falls ill, their teammates should go into self-isolation and your...

21 March 2020
1 min read
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to take hold, many food businesses are switching to a delivery or take-out model.
insights

3 Rules for Food Workers During the COVID-19 Pandemic

If you are a food business owner or manager, share these 3 simple rules with your employees to minimize the risk of spreading COVID-19 at your business: Don’t work when...

21 March 2020
1 min read
The food industry is one of the hardest hit industries during the current COVID-19 crisis.
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What Can Food Businesses Do if They Are Closed Due to COVID-19?

In some locations within the United States and Canada, a state of emergency has been declared which has imposed severe restrictions on food businesses that allow customers to dine within...

20 March 2020
2 min read
As the COVID-19 pandemic dominates headlines around the world, food business managers may need to talk to the media regarding outbreaks of the coronavirus.
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Dealing with the Media During COVID-19

Before talking to anyone from the media, contact the local health authorities to ask about next steps. The action they advise you to take will depend on your jurisdiction and...

20 March 2020
1 min read
As governments around the world place restrictions on dine-in restaurants, many food businesses are switching to a delivery or take-out model.
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How Can Food Businesses Operate with Social Distancing?

What is physical or social distancing? Physical or social distancing involves members of a population refraining from interacting in large groups and in public spaces. This also means that one-on-one...

19 March 2020
2 min read
Adopting a take-out or home delivery model for your food business does involve some work, but it may be a better solution than shutting down completely.
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Should Your Food Business Switch to a Take-out or Home Delivery Model?

With the threat of COVID-19 spreading globally, many governments are restricting dine-in options at food businesses and enforcing take-out or home deliveries only. For many food businesses that already provide...

18 March 2020
2 min read
Large restaurant chains such as Starbucks are preventing the use of reusable cups to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
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Can Food Businesses Adapt to the COVID-19 Pandemic?

What is changing for food businesses during the pandemic? For food businesses that continue to operate during the COVID-19 pandemic, business-as-usual operations are shifting to reduce risk to customers, staff...

17 March 2020
2 min read
State of emergency declarations are prohibiting food businesses from offering dine-in options.
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Can You Keep Your Business Stable During the COVID-19 Pandemic?

Food businesses managers and owners are having to make adjustments to the way they conduct their business, from training staff on serious hygiene precautions they need to enact daily, to...

15 March 2020
1 min read
COVID-19 is not a food-borne illness in the way we traditionally think of food-borne illnesses.
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Can COVID-19 Transfer through Food?

Is COVID-19 a food-borne illness? No, COVID-19 is not a food-borne illness in the way we traditionally think of food-borne illnesses. By definition, food-borne illnesses are those that occur from...

12 March 2020
2 min read
Training staff on COVID-19 protects customers, prevents the spread of the coronavirus and ensures business continuity.
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Why is Training for COVID-19 Important?

Some food businesses, like restaurants and bars in some Canadian provinces, are being required to shutdown completely after state of emergencies have been declared. The same is occurring in the...

10 March 2020
3 min read