Safety tips to keep in mind while dining out at times of COVID-19

With Coronavirus making its rounds, foodies across the nation are reassessing their relationship with restaurants. Many diners seem to be wary of setting foot into eateries as some public health experts have suggested practising “social distancing”. We understand that these are trying times but there is no need to panic. Though most of the bars and local eateries have closed their doors, the restaurants that are still operational are standing strong and maintaining impeccable hygiene standards. Hyper aware of customer concerns, operational restaurants are adhering strictly to the guidelines issued by medical advisories that entail keeping more space between diners and a mandate that tables be placed at least six feet apart. So, you see, functional dining places are trying to get ahead of the fears by implementing new and effective safety protocols to curb the widespread of paranoia among public. If you are a food enthusiast, given below are the safety tips that you should follow before dining out.

• Public health experts recommend practising “social distancing” which literally implies increasing the physical space between people. So, always make sure to maintain a distance of at least six feet from others.  

• While you can not come into contact with the virus through food, the hard surfaces you encounter are another story. And, while restaurants are doing everything in their power to maintain a squeaky clean environment by disinfecting trays, dining room tables and chairs after every use, it is imperative for you to also be mindful and carry a sanitizer and wet tissues with you at all times.

• Wash your hands properly several times a day especially before and after eating. Keep a sanitizer handy at all times to deal with potential contamination and increase the frequency of sanitizing high-touch surfaces such as doors, counter tops, kiosks, phones, restrooms and more.
• While dining out, opt for dishes that require fresh preparation and are served piping hot. Skip out on the salad, any kind of raw preparations, cold beverages for a bit and increase intake of dishes that are infused with ginger and garlic.
• We can’t stress this enough but wear a mask while stepping out to protect yourself as they say, "it’s better to be safe than sorry!"
• Health advisories are also urging people to keep their throats moist at all times, so make sure you drink water at regular intervals and consume hot beverages to boost immunity and maintain a healthy internal ecosystem.

Let this thing not be any bigger than our spirits. So, while I enjoy this steal deal that I bought from EazyDiner and sip on my Desi Chai at Chaayos for just Rs 1, I hope you will follow these safety measures and stay safe.

FAQs

Q1. Is it safe to dine out amid Coronavirus crisis? 

A: If you take all the necessary safety measures while stepping out it is quite safe to dine out.

Q2. Can you catch the virus through food? 

A: No, you cannot catch the infection through food. Covid-19 infection can be contracted by touching un-sanitized high-touch public surfaces.

Q3. How can I minimize the risk of catching an infection in public places? 

A: Always carry a heavy-duty sanitizer with you that contains at least 60% alcohol in it. After touching any surface sanitize your hands to avoid potential contamination. If you can, also carry disinfecting wipes with you as an added safety measure. Always maintain good hygiene and avoid sharing personal items.

Q4. Are there any particular food items that can be consumed to prevent from catching COVID-19? 

A: Just stay away from street food and drink water at regular intervals. Make sure to always eat fresh and hot food. Consume hot beverages infused with ginger to boost immunity.