Is it safe to go to a farmers market? Tips for shoppers during coronavirus pandemic
People are urged to avoid exposure to the coronavirus, but the need for food sometimes just can’t wait.
Across the country, farmers markets are making adjustments to reduce the risk of spreading the disease while helping vendors stay afloat.
So, is it safe for shoppers to go? Here’s what experts have to say.
Instead of leaving your house to buy food, health officials suggest using delivery or pick-up options when available.
“Only visit the grocery store, or other stores selling household essentials, in person when you absolutely need to,” the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said. “This will limit your potential exposure to others and the virus that causes COVID-19.”
If your trip is necessary, you may want to do research before heading out, foodnetwork.com reported in May.
In areas with multiple farmers markets, browsing can help shoppers weigh each location’s coronavirus-related protocols, such as social distancing guidelines or face mask policies, the website said. You may also want to check whether the markets are open-air, a safer layout than enclosed spaces, Dr. Theresa Brennan, chief medical officer at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, told foodnetwork.com.
In North Carolina, the state Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services has encouraged families to pick one designated person to do the shopping at farmers markets.
It’s also best to stay at home if you have a fever, cough or other symptoms of the coronavirus, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
What should I do while shopping?
While in public, the CDC recommends wearing a face covering to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19. Health experts also suggest shopping early in the morning or late at night, if possible.
“Try to go to the market when it’s not so crowded and always keep six feet between you and others,” Dr. Robert Amler, dean of New York Medical College’s School of Health Sciences and Practice, told Food & Wine in an article published Saturday.
Shoppers should also avoid touching their faces and items they don’t plan to buy, experts say.
“If you touch it, take it,” Dr. Tania Elliott of New York University Langone told foodnetwork.com. “Don’t fondle the food, smell it or squeeze it.”
Officials encourage people to limit their time at farmers markets and use touchless payments when they’re ready to check out. Then, it’s a good idea for shoppers to use hand sanitizer or soap and water to clean their hands, experts say.
Once at home, you can organize food and put perishables in the refrigerator, according to the CDC.
“There is no evidence that food or food packaging play a significant role in spreading the virus in the United States,” the agency said on its website.
This story was originally published May 30, 2020 at 11:52 AM with the headline "Is it safe to go to a farmers market? Tips for shoppers during coronavirus pandemic."
