During this challenging time, many of us are navigating an altered reality. The fear, overwhelm, and sadness can be palpable, especially for parents striving to manage their children’s emotions alongside their own while juggling work and homeschooling. After enduring what feels like a week in a single day, the urge to indulge in a comforting meal from our favorite local eatery becomes strong.
As states, including Vermont, enforce stay-at-home orders, more people are turning to takeout and curbside pickup. But is it safe? Should you opt for takeout or utilize the complimentary meals offered by local restaurants and schools? The answer is a resounding yes. Here’s why continuing to support local restaurants is both safe and vital.
Understanding COVID-19 Transmission
COVID-19 primarily spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. While transmission can occur via surfaces, this is not the main method of spread. The CDC, USDA, and FDA affirm that there is no evidence of COVID-19 surviving on food. According to the FDA, “Foodborne exposure to this virus is not known to be a route of transmission.” Even if an infected individual were to cough on your food, ingesting respiratory viruses like COVID-19 does not lead to illness in the same way inhaling the virus does. The virus primarily affects the respiratory system, not the digestive tract. Food safety expert Ben Chapman highlights that the virus’s presence is significantly diluted through packaging and handling.
Trusting Food Preparers
When it comes to your food’s preparation, trust is essential. Food preparers are following enhanced safety protocols established by the FDA during the pandemic. Sick employees are advised to stay home, and those who do come to work are practicing stringent hygiene measures, including hand washing, glove use, and surface sanitation. Sarah Johnson, owner of a popular café in Burlington, Vermont, emphasizes that her team is committed to high standards. “We know exactly how we’re handling your food and packaging,” she states. “Everyone is dedicated to ensuring safety.”
Handling Food Packaging
As for food packaging, a study from the New England Journal of Medicine found that the virus can linger on porous surfaces like cardboard for up to 24 hours. However, experts confirm that the likelihood of transmission through contact with these surfaces is low. If you’re utilizing food delivery services, opt for contactless payment and request that your driver leave your order at your doorstep. After bringing the food inside, minimize contact surfaces. Some suggest placing packages in a specific area, opening them, washing hands for at least 20 seconds, and then disposing of the packaging. Clean the surface where the packaging sat and wash your hands again before eating.
Supporting Your Local Community
Supporting your local community is more crucial than ever. Small businesses, like Johnson’s, rely on your patronage to survive. Restaurant owners are banding together, sharing strategies to support each other and their staff. “Community support through takeout and generous tips has been overwhelming,” Johnson explains. Purchasing gift cards is another way to help if you’re hesitant about leaving home.
Additionally, consider using grocery delivery services to minimize store crowds, and please take advantage of free meals offered to children through local organizations. Participation ensures continued funding for these programs and provides necessary support to families in need. It’s a relief to have one less meal to worry about during the week, and it lessens the need for grocery trips.
Conclusion
So, go ahead and treat yourself to that delicious meal from a local restaurant. It’s safe, beneficial for the community, and helps you unwind. And remember to wash your hands—always!
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Summary: Takeout and food delivery can be safe during the pandemic if you follow specific guidelines. Trust food preparers who adhere to safety protocols, minimize contact with surfaces, and support local businesses. Enjoying a meal from your favorite eatery can be a comforting break, so don’t hesitate to indulge.