Grocery shopping while under quarantine is a whole new game when compared to pre-isolation shopping. Instead of a casual trip where you linger around the store with your coffee and gawk at new products, you should try to get what you need and leave. Planning out those steps will help you be as successful and safe as possible.
Pre-trip:
- Make a flexible meal plan for as far out as you think you will make your next grocery haul. Figure out what ingredients you need for these meals and start your grocery list. By using a physical piece of paper means there is no need to have your phone out, so there is less chance for it to become infected.
- As before, check out your store’s weekly ads and deals. Just because we are in a pandemic doesn’t mean you have to spend an outrageous amount of money on food.
- If you have access, bring a homemade mask, hand sanitizer, and gloves.
- Check with your store of choice beforehand, but it is likely you cannot use reusable bags at this time.
- Have your debit or credit card in easy reach so you don’t have to dig through your wallet at the cash register.
At the store:
- Stay cognizant of your surroundings. It is easy to spot the item you’re searching for and run up to it without even being aware of the space.
- It will be difficult because of old habits but don’t touch every produce item when checking their ripeness.
Post-trip:
- Wipe all of your purchases down before bringing them into your home.
- Be sure to wash all fruits and veggies.
Your store may be out of a few items. Before you go, think about some swaps or alternatives you could make do with in the meantime. This could look like purchasing shelf stable milks instead of dairy milk or grabbing applesauce instead of many baking necessities.
It’s also a good idea to get a mix of fresh, frozen, and canned foods. Frozen fruits and vegetables have just as much nutrients as fresh, you just have to be a bit more creative to eat them! You can’t make a salad with frozen spinach, but you can add some to a fruit smoothie to boost your veggie intake for the day.
If you are at a store that offers more than food, take a look at the book offerings they have. A new book or word search can keep your brain stimulated during your down time. You could also have yourself an at-home spa day! Find your favorite nail polish, a fresh face mask, or bath bomb – really anything that makes you feel pampered (Self-care doesn’t mean you have to buy something special. Maybe for you means planning 20 minutes of quiet time before you begin your workday!)
No matter what you are looking for at the store, make sure you prepare yourself to make it as safe and productive as possible!
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