As the number of cases continues to increase, some have started to shop for groceries online to avoid the potential of catching the highly contagious virus from other shoppers at the supermarket.

However, you cannot be too cautious when having your package of groceries delivered to your doorstep as you still can get the virus from your courier or from the surface of the packages, although the chances are small.

Below is the list of steps to make your online grocery shopping even more safe from the lethal disease.

Use contactless delivery

When you order your groceries, chat with your courier to have the items delivered to your doorstep or somewhere nearby.

If you still wish to meet the courier face-to-face, keep a safe distance from them. The World Health Organization advises that we maintain at least 1-meter distance from one another, especially from those who are coughing or sneezing.

Ask the courier to put down the package, and then pick the package when the courier has backed off.

Sounds like an illegal drugs transaction in action movies? It does, but it is the safest way to protect yourself as well as the courier.

Read also: GoFood, GrabFood provide contactless food delivery amid COVID-19 spread

Use electronic payment and tipping

Electronic transactions enable minimum physical interaction between you and the courier. Also, you can reduce the chances of touching cash bills and change that are covered with invisible germs.

Most online grocery shopping apps prefer the use of cashless transactions anyway, and usually cashless transactions have more discount options.

Wash packages and fresh produce thoroughly

Current studies say that it is very unlikely you will get the disease from food; however, your groceries and their packaging may have traces of other people’s hands when they are picked and packed. It is advisable to wash the boxes and bags that come with the groceries with soap and water and dry them before storing.

Paper and cardboard boxes cannot be washed; however, studies have found that the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 cannot survive on cardboard surfaces longer than 24 hours.

It is also advisable to wash fruit and vegetables with water and liquid soap designed for washing fresh produce.

Also, don’t forget to wash your hands after you store the groceries. (gis/kes)

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