The COVID-19 pandemic has upended our daily life but grocery shopping remains a necessity to all. It’s common that most of us must be having questions on how to shop safely. Currently, there is no evidence available of human or animal food being associated with transmission of coronavirus.
As the virus mainly spreads through person-to-person most of the grocery stores may be taking extra precautions by limiting the number of people inside the store, marking on the floor to maintain social distancing, and by modifying their operating hours.
To help protect yourself you can take a few steps to reduce the spread of coronavirus and the risk of catching the infection. Here are a few tips to help you with a worry-free shopping:
Before going to the store –
Prepare a shopping list in advance:
Buy groceries for a week or two at a time. Do not stock unnecessarily as it might create a demand and temporarily shortage.
Let one person go for shopping:
It’s best that one person goes shopping to limit the exposure of your family. This even helps to reduce overcrowding in the store.
Wear a face mask:
Before you go out wear a mask as it is recommended to prevent the spread of coronavirus from the people who are affected. Wearing a mask can reduce the risk and make sure you DO NOT touch your face.
While you’re at the store –
Make use of the sanitizer:
Before entering the store and after leaving the store make sure you use a hand sanitizer. Carry your own sanitizer or you can use the one provided at the store.
Social distancing is the key:
In any public setting, maintain social distancing by keeping at least 6 feet distance from others.
Avoid exploring aisles:
Make your visit as brief as possible. Pick up things you have used before and stock them in your bag.
Do not touch your face:
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth until you are back home, and do so only once you’ve sanitized them properly.
After getting back at home –
Rinse the food packets and items:
As of now, there is no evidence that people may contract COVID-19 through food or food products. However, the virus may be transmitted if one comes in contact with a contaminated surface. If you’re still concerned, you can wipe the product packaging and allow it to air dry as an extra precaution.
Handle bags carefully:
Dispose bags after emptying them. If you are using a reusable bag, it is advisable that you keep it aside for washing.
Wash your hands:
Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds and sanitize them thoroughly after you put away your groceries.
Store food at the right places:
Store perishable and non perishable items separately. While storing meat and vegetables, you should keep them in different compartments of your fridge to avoid cross contamination.
Since the regulations on supermarkets and local grocery stores are strict, make sure you stock up only what is essential and have an extended shelf life. We hope by following these tips, you’ll be able to shop for your groceries during this pandemic carefully.
Disclaimer: Indian Health Bureau does not claim any responsibility for the information contained in this article. The information may not hold good for everyone. The post is for general awareness only and should not be construed as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Please consult your doctor to know what is good for you.
Comments