They stressed that swine viruses are common in pigs, and there was no need for consumers to stop eating pork as long as it's handled properly and cooked thoroughly.

Yao Ji Stewed Liver has been reaping the rewards - with long queues stretching along the street as people try to relive the VP's hearty bowl of pork noodles, according to the Shanghaiist.

Cured pork has long been a bedrock pantry item for rural Southern folk.