These times are certainly challenging, and it’s easy to feel anxious about handling food, from grocery shopping to meal prep. To reduce the spread of coronavirus, this guide takes you through some important tips.
Food shopping
A great general rule is to reduce the number of times you go to the grocery store and to go there during quieter hours, rather than during busy times. If you’re not sure when the peak hours are that you wish to avoid, call the store’s customer service department to find out.
At the store, wear a mask and be mindful of how close you are to other shoppers. Keep the recommended distance of 6 feet from them, if not further than that.
When first arriving at the store, if you require a shopping cart or basket, then disinfect the handle and any other surface of it that you would touch. Stores provide wipes, and after using them, you ought to throw them away immediately.
Use hand sanitizer as well, both when entering the store and leaving it. Prepare ahead in case the store runs out of the product by putting one in your pocket or purse before leaving home.
When choosing fruits and vegetables, avoid touching multiple ones to see which one is the best. Minimizing the number of things that you touch is a good idea during the COVID-19 pandemic. Look at which one you would like and then grab it, rather than handling multiple items.
For items that do not need refrigeration, put them aside, and do not touch them for three days as coronavirus has a limited time it can survive on surfaces.
For items needing to go into the fridge or freezer as soon as you get home, consider wiping them down with a wipe to remove any potential contamination.
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Meal preparation
Handwashing often is essential for food safety, now more than ever before. Before preparing, handling, or eating food, always wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If you worry that you are infected with the virus, and at home coronavirus test can help you find out.
Frozen vegetables are a great alternative to fresh ones and can provide you with the right nutrients for a balanced diet. But frozen items, as well as cans, might be unavailable in some cases, such as when people are stockpiling during the pandemic.
If you cannot find frozen items, consider getting fresh produce and freezing it. Many types of foods retain their nutritional value and taste when frozen, such as carrots and broccoli.
Pre-planning meals can be helpful too, so that you make minimal trips to the grocery store, only doing one shop for the many meals you’ve envisioned ahead.
If you are looking for new meal ideas, especially since you are likely eating out less during coronavirus times, there are many great recipes to be found online.
Final words on food safety
Practicing the tips above can help you during these challenging times. By planning and following recommended COVID-19 health guidelines, you can still enjoy healthy foods while doing what’s best for you and others.
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