What is a virus?

A virus is accurately described as microscopic structures that replicate by invading cells. Unlike bacteria or single-celled organisms, which are categorized as living entities because they can carry out metabolic processes and reproduce independently, viruses cannot function or reproduce on their own. They require a host cell to invade and hijack the cellular machinery for replication.

When a virus infects a host cell, it introduces its genetic material inside the cell. The cell then begins to produce new virus particles instead of its normal products, leading to the eventual destruction of the host cell. This unique replication process is central to understanding the virus's role in food safety, as certain viruses can contaminate food and cause illness.

Understanding the nature of viruses is crucial in the context of food safety management, particularly in preventing foodborne illnesses caused by viral pathogens. This comprehension allows individuals in the food industry, like those at Starbucks, to implement appropriate hygiene and sanitation measures to minimize the risk of viral contamination in food and beverages.