how to stock pantry for pandemic

What are some of the best foods to eat during the COVID-19 pandemic?

Try to eat foods with unsaturated fats (such as those found in fish, avocados, nuts, olive oil, corn oils, etc.) rather than unsaturated fats, like those in fatty meat, butter, cream, and cheese. White meat, such as chicken, and fish are better choices than red meat because they are generally lower in fat.

Can COVID-19 transmit through food?

While there is currently no evidence to suggest that COVID-19 is transmitted by food, the pandemic has nonetheless impacted the supply chain and consumers' access to the foods they are seeking, making supply chain continuity and food availability top priorities for the FDA.

Can COVID-19 be transmitted through food or food packaging?

Given that the number of virus particles that could be theoretically picked up by touching a surface would be very small and the amount needed for infection via oral inhalation would be very high, the chances of infection by touching the surface of food packaging or eating food is considered to be extremely low.The USDA and the FDA are sharing this update based upon the best available information from scientific bodies across the globe, including a continued international consensus that the risk is exceedingly low for transmission of SARS-CoV-2 to humans via food and food packaging.

Can I get COVID-19 from a food worker handling my food?

Currently, there is no evidence of food or food packaging being associated with transmission of COVID-19.

Is the U.S. food supply safe?

See full answerCurrently there is no evidence of food or food packaging being associated with transmission of COVID-19.Unlike foodborne gastrointestinal (GI) viruses like norovirus and hepatitis A that often make people ill through contaminated food, SARS-CoV-2, which causes COVID-19, is a virus that causes respiratory illness and not gastrointestinal illness, and foodborne exposure to this virus is not known to be a route of transmission.It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads. It’s always important to follow the 4 key steps of food safety—clean, separate, cook, and chill.

Am I at risk for COVID-19 from touching food or packaging?

Again, there is no evidence of food packaging being associated with the transmission of COVID-19. However, if you wish, you can wipe down product packaging and allow it to air dry, as an extra precaution.

Is it safe to shop for food during the COVID-19 pandemic?

As grocery shopping remains a necessity during this pandemic, many people have questions about how to shop safely. We want to reassure consumers that there is currently no evidence of human or animal food or food packaging being associated with transmission of the coronavirus that causes COVID-19.

What are the risks of food from takeout or drive-thru food?

There is no current indication that takeout or drive-thru meals will increase illness.This option is a good risk management choice, especially for high risk and elderly groups because it reduces the number of touch points.

What are some precautions to take when storing groceries during the coronavirus disease pandemic?

Before eating, rinse fresh fruits and vegetables under running tap water, including those with skins and rinds that are not eaten. Scrub firm produce with a clean produce brush. For canned goods, remember to clean lids before opening. When unpacking groceries, refrigerate or freeze meat, poultry, eggs, seafood, and other perishables—like berries, lettuce, herbs, and mushrooms—within 2 hours of purchasing.Regularly clean and sanitize kitchen counters using a commercially available disinfectant product.

Is the food supply safe if food workers are exposed to or sick from COVID-19?

The U.S. food supply remains safe for both people and animals.• There is no evidence of food or food packaging being associated with transmission of COVID-19 regardless of the status of the worker in a plant. • FDA does not anticipate that food products will need to be recalled or be withdrawn from the market should a person that works on a farm or in a food facility test positive for COVID-19.

Can you get COVID-19 from touching infected surfaces?

It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their mouth, nose, or possibly eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.

How to handle dishes after COVID-19 patient?

• Wash dishes and utensils using gloves and hot water: Handle any dishes, cups/glasses, or silverware used by the person who is sick with gloves. Wash them with soap and hot water or in a dishwasher.