Survey of Implemented Mitigation Strategies and Further Needs of the U.S. Food Industry to Control COVID-19 in the Work Environment in Early 2021

Abstract

Our objective was to determine the needs of the U.S. food industry to control COVID-19 in the work environment and what mitigation strategies are being implemented. A Web-based needs assessment survey was distributed in early 2021, targeting professionals in management positions at food industry facilities and operations. Statistical analyses were conducted on the self-reported adoption of mitigation strategies against COVID-19 in the participants’ facilities and operations and the perceived needs of the industry regarding COVID-19. A total of 79 usable responses were received (those with data on the participant’s industry sector), including 38 (48%) from the dairy, 17 (22%) from the fresh produce, and 24 (30%) from a mixture of other food industry sectors. Two usable responses were from the beef and pork sector, but none were from the poultry sector. Analyses revealed widespread implementation of mitigation strategies in the participants’ facilities and operations. Participants perceived that collaboration between the food industry and government agencies, contingency plans and appropriate training, and new technologies are needed to control COVID-19 in the food industry. Subject to limitations associated with low participation, these findings will aid efforts in the represented U.S. food industry sectors to protect workers’ health in the event of the emergence of a new SARS-CoV-2 variant or similar future disaster.