Grocery shopping during Covid-19: Take these necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the virus

Team Udayavani, May 21, 2020, 1:28 PM IST

Amid Covid-19, all are advised to stay home and limit contact with people, but there is still one place nearly everyone needs to visit at some point, the grocery store.

However, there is currently no evidence of human or animal food or food packaging being associated with transmission of the coronavirus that causes Covid-19. Coronavirus causes respiratory illness and is spread from person-to-person.

Here is what you need to do in order to help protect yourself and grocery store workers:

1.Always wear face mask and gloves while going out for shopping

2.Prepare a shopping list in advance and buy just 1 to 2 weeks-worth of groceries at a time.

3.Use reusable shopping bags, ensure they are cleaned or washed before each use.

4.Practice social distancing while shopping by keeping at least 6 feet between you and other shoppers.

Once you come home from grocery shopping:

1.Wash your hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds when you return home and again after you put away your groceries.

2.When unpacking groceries, refrigerate or freeze meat, poultry, eggs, seafood, and other perishables like berries, lettuce, herbs, and mushrooms within 2 hours of purchasing.

3.Rinse fresh fruits and vegetables under running tap water.

4.Scrub firm produce with a clean brush and for canned goods, remember to clean lids before opening.

5.Although there is no evidence of food packaging being associated with the transmission of Covid-19. It is better to wipe down product packaging and allow it to air dry.

6.Ensure that all the items are disinfected with some wipe or are washed properly if they are used within 72 hours.