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(HealthNewsDigest.com) – As news of the growing number and spread of confirmed cases of COVID-19, coronavirus, were confirmed in the US, people went into emergency stock-up mode and store shelves were cleared. Many reacted as if they were facing a looming storm like a hurricane or blizzard, which is not the case. Coronavirus is a respiratory virus, it will not disrupt essential services like your water supply or electricity. And, it is not a foodborne illness, though many of the steps used to prevent illness carried by food can also minimize the risk of contracting the virus.
FMI – Food Marking Institute – the food industry association is helping retailers with staffing issues and merchandise channels to ensure that shelves will be stocked. The sudden demand after the President’s public message and the numerous school and event closings created a sudden surge in demand. This shortfall is very temporary and will be corrected with regular food deliveries in a matter of days.
The US is a champion food producer. In fact, we grow more food than is actually needed by our population. Food in the US will not be in short supply during the coronavirus outbreak. Still, there are things you can do to be sure your family is safe, especially if you are asked to home quarantine.
Before you go on a mad shopping spree – and no one needs to buy 22 cans of tuna – survey your pantry, refrigerator and freezer. If anything is very old or well passed its expiration date and taking up space, discard it. Next make a list.
Consider all the major food groups. Though fresh protein sources like meat, poultry and fish will be available, it might be wise to buy some extra cans of beans, canned fish, nut butters, nuts and an extra dozen or two of eggs and some extra cheese. These last two will hold refrigerated for a number of weeks and can be the basis for quick and healthy meals.
Grab a few boxes of pasta, rice, quinoa, and cereal. Bread can be frozen, so an extra loaf or two is a good idea. Stick with whole grains whenever possible.
Frozen and canned fruits and vegetables are a good substitute for fresh when you are making fewer trips to the supermarket. Add a few extras to your cart, as well.
As a backup to a fresh milk supply consider nonfat dry milk and shelf stable milk that does not need to be refrigerated till opened.
If you cannot get to the supermarket, order on line and have the groceries delivered. Request doorstep delivery so there is minimum interaction between your family and the delivery service.
What you don’t need are hundreds of rolls of toilet paper. Most cases COVID-19 do not cause diarrhea. There has been an increased demand for emergency food kits used to stock shelters. Save your money you are not facing a weather emergency. Healthy snacks are fine but do use the risk of catching the virus as a free pass to eat all the chips, cookies and other treats you would normally limit. One of the best preventive actions you can take against getting sick is to eat well and continue exercising.
Clean hands, clean surfaces, avoiding cross contamination between raw and cooked food, and storing foods properly are basic good hygiene practices that we should always follow. Now they are more important than ever. And, don’t forget to smile and laugh. A positive attitude helps support good health.
© NRH Nutrition Consultants, Inc.
Jo-Ann Heslin, MA, RD, CDN is a registered dietitian and the author of 30 books.
Available as eBooks from iTunes and Kindle/Amazon:
Diabetes Counter – the most up-to-date information on managing diabetes
Calorie Counter – a weight loss guide that won’t let you down
Protein Counter – put the latest protein recommendations to work for you
Healthy Wholefoods Counter – planet-friendly eating made easy
Complete Food Counter – food counts and nutrition information at your fingertips
Fat and Cholesterol Counter – newest approach to heart-healthy eating
Available in print from Gallery Books:
Most Complete Food Counter, 3rd Ed.
For more information on Jo-Ann and her books, go to: www.TheNutritionExperts.com