We all know that we need to avoid crowded places because of the coronavirus pandemic, but how should you handle grocery shopping? That is the big question.
Well, one way to avoid the grocery stores would be to utilize a grocery deliver service, should have that option available to you.
Instacart, the largest grocery-delivery company, reported record customer demand in the last few weeks. Competitors FreshDirect and Shipt said they also were seeing big surges in orders, as did Amazon, owner of grocery delivery services Amazon Fresh and Amazon Prime Now.
If grocery deliver services are not an option or appealing to you and you find yourself having to go into a grocery store, try to employ the following to minimize your risk of contracting the COVID-19 virus.
There is no direct evidence that the COVID-19 virus has been transmitted via food packaging, but it most certainly doesn’t hurt to clean your food packages once at home. Scientist state that the coronavirus can remain viable on cardboard for up to 24-hours and on plastic and steel for up to 72-hours. To clean your grocery packages, simply use disinfecting wipes to wipe down plastic containers, cardboard, glass, etc. If that’s not practical, wash your hands well after putting away all packaging, including paper boxes and bags.
Wash your hands, counter, and other surfaces you’ve touched. Do this after you’ve put away the groceries. Keep in mind that using a disinfectant isn’t necessary unless you’re sharing a space with someone who is exhibiting signs of respiratory illness or has been exposed to the virus.
Wash produce. Rubbing fruit and vegetables under running water—and scrubbing those with hard skins—can help remove pesticides.
If you are getting groceries delivered, you should simply follow the same practices.
If you are shopping inside of a store :
- Go shopping at a time that’s less busy. If you type in the store’s name and location in Google search, a box often will pop up showing when foot traffic there is highest.
- Take germicide with you. Use it to wipe your hands and the cart before and after you shop.
- Use a credit or debit card. That way, you don’t have to hand over bills or receive change. Also, use your own pen to sign receipts. If you can, use a virtual payment system like Apple Pay so that you don’t have to open your wallet at all.
- Wearing a protective mask and a pair of gloves would not hurt at all. Even a homemade mask can help keep your fingers way from your face.
Be safe. Be healthy. Stay home as much as possible and only go out if you absolutely must.