By: Kathryn Johnson, Registered Dietitian

As we navigate through these uncertain times, many are wondering what to do when they have to go to the grocery store. Should I bring my own grocery bags? Should I sanitize my food when I get home?

Below are some tips that will hopefully help ease your stress and keep you safe.

When Grocery Shopping:

1. Think about store pickup or delivery options instead of going inside the grocery store.
2. Limit trips to the grocery store and avoid peak-hours.
3. Wipe down the grocery cart or basket before shopping. If your store doesn’t offer or have any wipes, bring your own just in case. If you have access to gloves, wear those and dispose of them after each use.
4. Only touch what you are going to purchase.
5. Remain at least 6 feet away from other shoppers and store personnel.
6. Bringing your own bags may not be the best option right now since these will need to be sanitized before and after you shop. Plastic bags may be a better option during this time.
7. Offer to bag your own groceries to minimize contact by others.

After Grocery Shopping:

1. Always wash your hands after returning home and before preparing food.
2. Wash fresh produce thoroughly under running water. You can use a vegetable scrub brush, but remember to wash the scrub brush with soap and water after each use.
3. Wipe down canned goods with sanitizing wipes or soap and water.
4. Wash or wipe down refrigerated and frozen items.

Hopefully these tips will decrease your anxiety and stress about grocery shopping. We are all in this together. If we all do our part, we can decrease the spread of this virus and stay safe.