Last week I placed my first ever online grocery order. I am the type of person who enjoys going to the grocery store, but as I am striving to do my part to help flatten the curve, I am following expert recommendations to minimize grocery store trips for the time being.
Perhaps you are a veteran online grocery store shopper. Online grocery shopping can save time and money, reduce food waste and prevent impulse purchasing. While prices on the store website sometimes differ slightly from those in-store, most stores allow you to use e-coupons or digital coupons on your order, and some retailers will even accept paper coupons at the time of pick-up or delivery. Additionally, while most stores typically charge pick-up and delivery fees for orders placed online, many have temporarily reduced or removed fees to encourage shoppers to stay at home. Some stores are also offering no- or limited-contact pick-up delivery and options to protect their employees and their customers.
If you have never placed an online grocery order, OSU Extension professionals created a how-to guide and demonstration video to explain the process. Additionally, Utah State Extension offers a list of pros and cons associated with online grocery shopping. If you are unable to place an online grocery order and still want or need to visit the grocery store, be sure to take the following precautions(PDF) when at the store:
- Use hand sanitizer when entering the store
- Wash hands and/or use sanitizer as soon as possible after leaving the store
- Try to maintain social distancing as much as possible while shopping
- Avoid touching surfaces or items unnecessarily
- Avoid touching your mouth, nose or face
- Do not go shopping when showing symptoms of illness
For more information regarding COVID-19 and food safety measures, please visit https://producesafety.osu.edu/covid-19/factsheets.
