County extension agent gives tips on safe grocery shopping

Groceries are necessities even during COVID-19.
Many stores are doing online shopping but the Miller County Extension Officer is offering information to stay safe if you must go inside the grocery store.
"There is currently no evidence of getting COVID-19 from food packaging," said Carla Due, extension agent for the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture.
Food shortages are only due to panic buying, Due said.
County extension agents always recommend shopping from a list and that has not changed, Due said.
"Buy only what you need. It's recommended you have enough for about two weeks. It throws it off for everybody else when you buy more than that," Due said.
If the limit is two loaves of bread and you know you will only use one, leave the other for someone else, Due said.
Shoppers, especially older people and people with underlying health issues, should shop early in the morning or late in the evening.
"It's a good idea to go when there are not as many people in the store," Due said.
Many stores have adjusted shopping hours for the elderly and people with medical conditions.
Due also urges anyone going in a store to protect themselves and others.
"Anytime you are around someone outside of those living in your home with you, wear a mask, especially when you are in the store," Due said.
Shoppers should also disinfect the shopping cart, the handles of the cart or the basket with wipes.
Practice social distancing while shopping and do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth while shopping.
When you get home, wash your hands with warm for at least 20 seconds and again after you put your groceries away.
If possible, use touchless payment. If you must handle money or a card, use hand sanitizer or a wipe to disinfect your hands after payment.
Once you have the groceries home, put them away immediately. There is no reason to leave them outside, Due said. In fact, leaving them outside can increase the risk of food-borne illness. However, you can wipe down the packaging and let it air dry.
For more information about COVID-19 and protecting yourself, check out the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture at www.uaex.edu/covid-19.
You can also contact the Miller County Extension Office at 870-779-3609.