Can formula milk that a COVID-19 patient has drunk from still be consumed?

Generally speaking, whether infant formula previously consumed by a person with COVID-19 can still be consumed depends on whether the formula has been contaminated and the specific condition of the infected individual. The detailed analysis is as follows:

If the formula container remains unopened and was properly prepared by a healthy person, and the individual with COVID-19 only drank the prepared milk from the cup—without touching the formula itself or its packaging—and if the patient does not have symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea that could contaminate food, then the remaining formula may still be safe to consume. Before consumption, ensure the formula has been stored properly and maintain good hand hygiene during preparation to avoid cross-infection.

However, if the formula container has been opened and the patient has directly touched the formula or the opening of the packaging, or if respiratory droplets or bodily fluids have contaminated the formula during preparation, or if the patient is in a symptomatic phase with severe coughing, vomiting, or similar symptoms, the formula should not be consumed. Such formula may harbor viral contamination, posing an infection risk if ingested, and should be safely discarded without delay.

Household food storage should be strictly separated from items used by infected individuals, and patients' utensils should be washed and disinfected separately. Healthy individuals should wash hands promptly after contact with the patient, ensure indoor areas are well ventilated, consume fresh and hygienic ingredients, regularly disinfect utensils with high-temperature methods, and avoid sharing meals or utensils to minimize the risk of infection.