“Can I get the coronavirus from the groceries I bought from the store?”
Most of the things we have gotten from the store have probably been handled by the staff. It’s not just the groceries, but it can also be the trolleys, the bags and so on. Practically almost everything we touch actually has the potential to spread the virus.
If someone coughs and sneezes into their hands and eventually touches a surface, it is probably contaminated and can still pose as a risk.
What you can essentially do is only wear a mask if you’re not feeling well or if you have the symptoms. But, in that case, it is better for you and for others to not leave home.
Here’s what you can do where you’re at the store.
Sanitize your hands and trolley handles
Before you start shopping, remember to disinfect the trolley handles with wet wipes as well as your own hands.
Practice social distancing when you’re in public
When you get to the store, always remember to keep your distance. Most stores have already placed markings on the ground so that there will be enough space between people. Just sure you follow the guidelines, that way you can do your part by being responsible.
Opt for sealed vegetables & fruits
Although it is normal to wash the vegetables before cooking, at this risky time — it might be safer to purchase vegetables and fruits that are already frozen, vacuumed or prepacked.
Dispose of plastic and reusable bags
For those who have reusable bags, it is advised to not bring it out with you during your trip to the store. Even before the virus outbreak, it has been reported that almost all reusable bags contain bacteria.
With the coronavirus, it is much better to just use the plastic bags given by the stores to carry your purchased items.
However, do dispose of the bags once you get home.
What can you do when you get home?
If you were wearing a mask, you should throw it away first in the bin. Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap to make sure you get rid of any germs you’ve picked up. Then before taking a shower, put your clothes to wash.
When it comes to your purchased items, here’s what you can do as well.
Rinse produce
As you always should, if you have purchased any vegetables or fruits, make sure you give it a thorough rinse before storing it in the refrigerator. This is to make sure you have washed off whatever germs and pesticide residue on the produce. Since you can’t use soap, you can always try using vinegar, salt or lemon juice (for your peace of mind).
Disinfect other essential items with wet wipes
As a precaution, for other items such as canned goods, instant noodle packets and other nonporous items, you can disinfect it with wet wipes or a cloth that is soaked in soap and water before placing them in the cupboard.
Wipe commonly used surfaces
Always make sure you sanitize your kitchen counter, car door handle, house doorknobs, steering wheel, staircase railings, light switches, phone, wallets, purses and so on.
It is essential to practice these good habits as a precaution and to keep both you and your family safe from the COVID-19 virus. Plus, remember to wash your hands regularly and keep a distance from others.
Pictures by Maddi Bazzocco, Fikri Rasyid, Phuong Tran, Giuseppe Argenziano, Burst, The Kitchn, Claudio Schwarz, The Post Star & Bristol