Safety in Grocery Shopping and Cooking During the Pandemic: Comparing Home Cooking vs. Takeout

With the ongoing global pandemic, the question of whether it is safer to buy groceries and cook at home or order takeout has become increasingly relevant. As of this writing, the situation has evolved, and while there is no complete safety, following certain guidelines can help mitigate risks.

Current Safety Measures and Guidelines

Given the current state, where we have adapted to a 'new normal' complete with precautions, many grocery stores and suppliers have returned to pre-pandemic handling methods. However, there are still measures to ensure a safer shopping experience:

Wear a mask: Continue to wear a cloth mask when shopping. Observe social distancing: Maintain a safe distance from others while shopping. Wear gloves: Consider wearing gloves to handle items, especially if you are vulnerable or have been advised to stay home. Thorough washing: Wash produce thoroughly before consumption, except for items like lettuce, fruits, and well-washed tomatoes. Non-contact delivery: Encourage no-knock, no-bell, and electronic payment policies to minimize contact. Use of disposable wipes: Clean the handles of your basket with wipes before handing it over to the cashier. Disinfection: Clean and disinfect surfaces and items upon return home.

Prescription for Safe Grocery Shopping and Cooking

Home-cooked meals are often the best option due to the control over sanitation and ingredients. Experimenting with new recipes can be a fun and rewarding experience.

A good example is a friend who started making pizza from bread he crafted at home, offering different fillings. While this is a unique approach, the key is to ensure the food is cooked thoroughly and washed appropriately.

Takeout Options and Safety

Takeout remains an option, and in many cases, it might be safer as long as proper precautions are taken. Here are some steps to ensure your safety:

Use gloves: Wear gloves when handling the delivery or unpacking the items. Firm packaging: Ensure that items that may go into the freezer are well-packed and can be cleaned with disinfectant or alcohol, as the virus is less tolerant of cold temperatures. Disinfect surfaces: Clear out a designated area, disinfect it, and place groceries there while wearing gloves. Wipe down packaging: Wipe down the exterior packaging with disinfectant or remove the interior packages before handling. Dispose of packaging: Place all packing materials in a designated area, such as a garage, and leave them for a few days. This allows the virus to disintegrate. Proper washing: Wash all fruits and vegetables in a sink or large bowl full of soapy water, washing each piece for 20 seconds as you would with handwashing. Wait before consumption: If you are not ordering items that need to go in the fridge, set the package aside for three days before consuming. Generous tipping: Remember to tip your delivery person generously for their efforts and risk.

Conclusion

While ordering takeout can be convenient, and home cooking offers both safety and health benefits, both options have their pros and cons. By following the recommended safety measures, you can minimize the risks associated with either choice.

Ultimately, the decision depends on your individual circumstances, preferences, and comfort level. Whether you opt for home-cooked meals or takeout, the key is to take necessary precautions and ensure the safety of your food.