Causing a surge in Coronavirus infections, the latest Covid-19 variant JN.1 has triggered an alert across the globe recently. While the new strain is not a life-threatening one, it is easily transmissible due to quick mutations in its spike protein. The JN.1 subvariant is a reminder that the COVID pandemic is still ongoing, and we should take preventive and precautionary measures to avoid getting infected and serious illness. Hence, it is imperative to take extra care and measures while handling groceries to prevent the transmission of coronavirus disease to other people and surfaces.

Food safety and handling is the matter of prime concern right now. People are trying various methods such as washing the fruits and vegetables in soap or detergent before usage, which may not be the right way. There is no clear-cut evidence so far available to prove that coronavirus spreads through food. This article gives you an insight about the precautions and guidelines one should follow to keep food germ-free.

Precautions While Shopping:

• When you are buying essentials at the supermarket ensure to stay at least 6 feet away from other people at all times.
• Touch items that you want to buy, disinfect the cart or basket handles with disinfectant wipes and sanitize your hand with hand sanitizer once you have done with the shopping. Also Read: Global Handwashing Day 2019: The Importance Of Sanitizing For Healthier Living

Cleaning Groceries And Vegetables:

Whatever may be the mode of getting your groceries you have to handle them safely when you bring them at home, this will minimise the chance of virus transmission to people or surfaces in your house.

• Wipe or wash cans or food boxes before storing to minimise virus content and also discard out the disposable packaging.
• Soon after stocking clean the tables, countertops or any other surfaces that were touched by groceries or grocery bags. Also Read: COVID-19: This Is How You Clean & Disinfect Your Home To Prevent Coronavirus
• Wash hands after unpacking and setting away your groceries.
• Cloth bags used to buy groceries should be washed with detergent soap and properly dried before reusing them.
• Before washing produce, wash your hands, even if you are going to rinse vegetables, it is essential to clean your hands thoroughly with soap and water for 20 seconds, before cleaning fruits and vegetable produce.
• Vegetables and fruits purchased from the supermarket should be rinsed in running water, then rub them thoroughly with hands.
• Cut any bruised or damaged part of fruits or vegetables and rinse thoroughly under running water without using any chemical washers.
• The FDA recommends, to rinse fruits and vegetables before you peel to get rid of dirt and invisible germs from the knife on to the produce.
• Do not use any soap or detergent. According to the FDA, it is a myth that soap or any special liquid is needed to clean produce. However, it is important to gently rub produce while rinsing under plain running water.
• When cleaning root vegetables like potato or carrots, melons, cucumbers use a scrub or brush especially for that, to remove the dirt.
• Dry the washed vegetables and fruits with a paper towel or clean cloth before storing them in the refrigerator.
• Remember to clean the cutting board, countertops and utensils with hot and soap water- especially after handling raw meat, poultry, seafood or eggs.
• Cook the food thoroughly at the optimal temperature to ensure that germs are killed.

Additional Precautions To Ward Off Germs From Food

Do Not Eat Moisture- Ridden Food Items

Moisture in food items may give growth to additional bacteria and germs. The moisture multiplies bacteria and viruses at a faster rate which may cause illness or weaken your immune system. Thus, the food items, fruits, and veggies you consume must be dried properly.

Re-Inspect Food After Storing It

Do not assume that the fruits and vegetables that have been cleaned the previous day remain completely free of bacteria when left in the refrigerator for long intervals. Even small amounts of bacteria on the surface will multiply over time. Ideally, wash items again and dry them before eating. 

Look For Fresh, Clean Produce

When buying fruits and vegetables, get clean ones and avoid those with visible molds and damaged or stale skin to keep them bacteria and virus-free. This must be done during the pandemic and even otherwise. In addition to bacteria, the surface of fruits and veggies may have traces of pesticides or other contaminants. Therefore, handle them with extreme care and wash them properly but without any chemicals.

Disclaimer:

The content provided here is for informational purposes only. This blog is not intended to substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider for any questions or concerns you may have regarding a medical condition. Reliance does not endorse or recommend any specific tests, physicians, procedures, opinions, or other information mentioned on the blog.