In times of uncertainty, one thing remains constant: we all need to eat. Even amidst a pandemic, grocery stores continue to serve the community, albeit with adjusted hours and capacity limits. For instance, in my local area, stores permit only seventy-five shoppers at a time. Therefore, it’s wise to make each visit count by stocking up to minimize the frequency of trips. After all, waiting in line for half an hour just for a carton of milk seems impractical.
With most venues closed, grocery stores have become essential hubs, necessitating extra caution. But what does practicing safety entail? Should you don gloves and a mask? Is it necessary to bring reusable bags, considering the virus can linger on plastic surfaces for up to 72 hours? Should you sanitize every item, or is a simple rinse of fruits and vegetables sufficient? The landscape of grocery shopping has changed, and here are some guidelines to keep you safe.
Plan Ahead
First and foremost, if online grocery shopping and delivery are available to you, take advantage of that option. If not, plan ahead and create a shopping list to minimize impulse buys. As noted in a piece from Sunset, limit your trips and utilize what you have at home instead of rushing to the store for specific cravings. If you find yourself yearning for ice cream but only have yogurt, go with the yogurt. Small, unnecessary trips can easily lead to increased exposure.
Practice Social Distancing
Janet Mills, a food safety expert, reminds us that while the virus can survive on surfaces for varying lengths of time, the real risk comes from interactions with other shoppers. The CDC recommends that anyone over two years old wear a mask in public spaces, including grocery stores. Maintaining a distance of at least six feet from others is also vital. If you find yourself waiting to grab an item, remember that patience is key.
Shop During Off-Peak Hours
To further enhance safety, consider shopping during off-peak hours. Weekends, especially Friday afternoons, can be particularly crowded. However, later on Sunday evenings might provide a more relaxed atmosphere.
Sanitize Surfaces
Although the risk of contracting COVID-19 from shopping carts or food is low, it’s still advisable to sanitize surfaces. Many grocery stores supply disinfectant wipes, so make sure to wipe down your cart before using it. If you’re allowed to bring reusable bags, wash them after each trip. If washing isn’t possible, store them in your car’s trunk for a day to minimize risk.
Unloading Groceries
Once you’re home, designate a specific area to unload your groceries. Wipe down packaging with a disinfectant wipe before storing items. It’s essential to disinfect the area where your groceries were placed. For fresh produce, washing with water is sufficient—there’s no need for anything more.
Hand Hygiene
After putting everything away, don’t forget to wash your hands thoroughly. Even if you wore gloves during your shopping trip, it’s crucial to follow the same hygiene practices. Karen Scott, a registered nurse, points out that gloves can provide a false sense of security if not used correctly. They may lead to cross-contamination if you’re not careful.
Checkout Safety
The checkout area can be a hotspot for germs. After handling your credit card and interacting with the checkout machine, it’s wise to use hand sanitizer and avoid touching your face.
Final Touches
Finally, once you’ve sanitized your groceries and washed your hands, consider wiping down any surfaces you touched before washing your hands—this includes door handles and cabinet knobs.
By following these guidelines, you can feel more secure about your grocery shopping trips, all while keeping your pantry stocked for your family. For more insights on navigating the challenges of pregnancy and home insemination, check out this related blog post. You can also find useful information on fertility options at this link from Make A Mom.
In summary, grocery shopping during a pandemic requires careful planning and additional safety measures. By prioritizing hygiene and making informed choices, you can protect yourself and your loved ones while fulfilling an essential need.
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