Grocery Items you Need to Store (not hoard) during Quarantine

Grocery Items You Need To Store Not Hoard During Coronavirus Quarantine

COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a lockdown situation in India. The government has asked the citizens to avoid going outside unless necessary. Children below the age of ten and older people above the age of 65 should not leave their homes at all.

We need to be housebound for the next couple of weeks to curb the spread of this deadly virus. This will limit trips to grocery stores.

You should stock up your home with essential grocery supplies. However, it is advised to purchase only what you require. Do not hoard supplies as it leads to a shortage of your community.

So, what are the best grocery or food items to shop during this time?

Well, this article provides a list of grocery supplies that are versatile and essential. The list of food products will enable you to prepare a nutritious meal so that your immune system is not compromised.

Without much delay, let us dive straight into the article.

Grocery Items you Need to Store

Non-Perishable Food Items

The government has directed the citizens of India to limit going out of their homes for a few weeks. The purchase of non-perishable food items is essential during this situation as they have a longer shelf-life and do not require immediate freezing. However, you will need to store these items in a cool, dark, and dry location to maximize their shelf-life.

Let us take a look at the list of non-perishable items:

Beans and Legumes

Beans and legumes ensure nutrient-rich meals as they are a source of plant protein. You can use legumes like chickpeas, peas, and lentils to prepare delicious, yet nutritious meals like stew, soups, and salads.

Nutrient-Rich Grains

It is advisable to stock up on nutrient-rich grains like buckwheat, millet, quinoa, barley, and brown rice. You can utilize them to prepare side dishes with vegetables and proteins.

High-Fiber Cereal

Cereals serve as a healthy breakfast option. You can buy high-fiber and high-protein dry cereals as they can be consumed with low-fat milk as mini-meals.

Oats

You can cook oats with water or milk and add your favorite toppings, like nuts, fruits, etc. Savory toppings like grated cheese, eggs, and sundried tomatoes also enhance the flavor of the dish.

Dried Fruits

Dry fruits are extremely rich in iron, antioxidants, and fiber. Look for dry fruits like figs, apricots, cranberries, raisins, prunes, etc. Nuts also blend well with dry fruits. You can shop for walnuts, almonds, pistachios, pecans, peanuts as they are rich in Omega-3 and 6, protein, and fiber.

Popcorn

Watching movies is a great way of passing the time and keeping yourself entertained during self-isolation. And what could be a better snack than popcorn while watching a movie with the family? Moreover, it is another great source of fiber.

Prepare healthy, fat-free, and delicious popcorn in your popcorn machine. You can add cheese to make it a savory snack. On the other hand, those who have a sweet-tooth can add chocolate, dry fruits, or caramel for flavor and sweetness.

Chocolates

Who doesn’t like chocolate? Stressful situations like this call for indulgence in chocolates and other sweets items.

So, it is okay to stock up on chocolate slabs. However, ensure that you don’t overeat; otherwise, you will have to run to the dentist, which is not a feasible option currently.

You can consider buying dark chocolate as it is healthy and rich in nutrients and antioxidants. Moreover, it is also capable of improving health by lowering the risk of heart diseases.

Shelf-Stable Milk

Milk is a must-have as it is a good source of calcium and vitamins. However, refrigerated milk does not have a shelf-life, and we are not in the situation to go to the grocery store frequently. So, it is better to opt for shelf-stable milk, which does not have to be refrigerated till opened.

Shelf-stable milk is made by pasteurizing at a high temperature. Also, it is packed in sterile bottles and stored in a sterile environment. Hence, it comes with a long shelf-life.

Coffee

Cafés and restaurants are running at a loss because of COVID-19. Moreover, you may also miss going to your favorite coffee shop for a brewing cup of coffee. So, why not brew your own cup of coffee or latte?

Hence, stock up on coffee, which will last you for at least a few weeks.

Nut Butter

You can buy this spread made by grinding nuts into a paste. It is rich in fiber and protein, and it goes with various foodstuffs, including crackers, loaves of bread, and fruits like apples and bananas. If you have peanut or nut allergies, then you can opt for sun butter that is made from sunflower seeds.

Crackers

Crackers are perfect snacks that go well with cheese and other savory toppings. You can munch on these while on quarantine. So, if you are hungry, you can munch away instead of going out to buy food. You can also get healthier options by looking for crackers that are rich in fiber. Also, there are options available for those with diabetes and other health issues.

Perishable Food Items

Perishable food items do not come with a long shelf-life like non-perishable food. They are prone to spoilage and tend to perish if not refrigerated. Hence, you must make a smart choice when it comes to stocking up perishable food items during the quarantine.

Let us take a look at the list of perishable food items:

Chicken and Seafood

You can store meat, including chicken, pork, and lamb in the freezer up to a few weeks. However, you are especially recommended to buy chicken as it is an essential source of protein in your diet. Eggs and seafood are also recommended food items that will help you get through your quarantine period.

However, ensure that you cook meat and eggs thoroughly. Eggs should be cooked at 71-degree C while chicken and port should be cooked at 74-degree C and 63-degree C, respectively.

Fruits and Vegetables

Vegetables such as green beans, cauliflower, carrots, broccoli, asparagus, and others should be stocked in the refrigerator. You can prepare various delicious and nutritious meals using these veggies.

Also, frozen fruits like peaches, strawberries, and blueberries are available in grocery stores. They can be used to prepare smoothies. You can also buy bananas, apples, and sweet lime, but their shelf-life is shorter compared to frozen fruits.

Citrus fruits such as lemon, oranges, and grapefruits are necessary as they are an important source of vitamin C. This will help improve your immune system so that your body is capable of fighting viruses.

Cheese and Yogurt

Dairy products like cheese and yogurt are healthy food items that serve as essentials while in quarantine. You can keep yogurt in the freezer if you wish to prepare a smoothie. On the other hand, you can store parmesan cheese in the refrigerator for weeks.

Bread

Check the manufacturing and expiry date of bread before making a purchase. Bread has a short shelf life of 3 to 7 days at room temperature. You can shop for bread if you plan on consuming it within its expiry date.

Bottled Water (optional)

This is an optional item on the list as it is advisable to stock up bottled water only if you don’t have a water filtration system at home.

The number of bottled water you buy should be dependent on the number of members of your family. Pregnant women, children, and sick people require more water. Also, remember that bottled water comes with an expiry date, so check the date before making a purchase.

Toiletries

You need to have a sufficient supply of toiletries that will last you for the entire quarantine period. Hand-wash and soap are extremely essential toiletries. You are advised to wash your hands using water and soap or hand wash for at least 20 seconds. This will prevent the spread of the virus and infection.

Let us take a look at a few other essential toiletries:

Hand Sanitizers

You will require an alcohol-based hand sanitizer to kill viruses and germs, especially if you need to go to a public place. Ensure that the sanitizer contains an alcohol concentration of 60% to 90%.

Toothpaste and Oral Care Products

Toothpaste is something we all need after waking up in the morning and before going to sleep. It helps us maintain dental hygiene. You wouldn’t want to do without this item during self-isolation. Hence, stock up two tubes of toothpaste to last you for the quarantine period.

Shampoo and Conditioner

Taking care of your hair is equally important. So, purchase a bottle of the shampoo and conditioner, which you genuinely use.

Deodorant

Who said that you couldn’t smell nice even while at home? You should not compromise on your fragrance and physical appearance. Hence, you can also shop for deodorants during this time. It may not be an essential toiletry, but it is worth the buy.

Hair Oil

Along with shampoo and conditioner, you will also need hair oil. Purchase almond or coconut oil to maintain your lustrous locks. These are rich in nutrients and will make your hair shinier and stronger.

Other Essentials

There is a list of other essential items which you should buy. These items will also help you get through the isolation phase.

Let us take a look at some of these products:

Dishwasher Soap or Liquid

Dishwasher soap or liquid is essential for washing your dishes and utensils. You will not be able to go to the supermarket or grocery store regularly. So, ensure that you purchase sufficient dishwasher soap or liquid to last you till the quarantine period is over.

Laundry Detergent

Washing your clothes with detergent and warm water will help you get rid of germs and viruses. You should shop for laundry detergent so that you don’t have to compromise on doing laundry while quarantined. Always go for a reliable brand to ensure the safety of your family.

Wash the clothes of a sick member of your family wearing disposable gloves. Also, wash your hands immediately to avoid the spread of infection.

Disinfectant Sprays and Liquids

The COVID-19 virus remains alive on different surfaces for a few hours to even a few days. Wipe the surfaces of your home, including floors, tiles, sinks, doorknobs, toilet seats, etc. using disinfectant sprays and liquids. So, you must have ample bottles of disinfectant sprays and liquids during quarantine to kill the virus for complete protection.

Baby Essentials

If you have an infant or toddler at home, then you need to stock up on baby supplies as well. You will have to shop for the essentials, which will be required during the self-isolation period. You can also purchase a few toys, books, etc. to keep him or her entertained.

Let us take a look at some of the important baby essentials required during this time:

Pet Food and Essentials

Your pet requires equal care during self-quarantine. Ensure that you pick up an extra bag of food and bottled water for your pet. You can also stock up on supplements to ensure the good health of your friend. Treats are also important purchases.

Also, consult the vet for any additional prescribed medication, which may be required in case of an emergency. Check on the expiry date of the food and medication before making a purchase.

Prescribed medications

Consult your doctor and visit the pharmacy to get a refill of prescription medication. This will save you from the hassle of going out to get them in case of self-isolation. Moreover, older individuals or those with underlying health issues are more at risk after contracting COVID-19.

Garbage Bags

Proper disposal of garbage is necessary to maintain proper hygiene. It is essential to dispose of garbage in eco-friendly garbage bags. So, buy sufficient packs of garbage bags for proper disposal. This will also prevent the spread of germs, bacteria, and viruses.

Paper Towels

Paper towels are loosely woven, allowing water to travel between fibers against gravity. These towels are similar to conventional in terms of purpose. You can use them to dry hands, wipe surfaces and windows, and clean spills.

Conclusion

Viruses are zoonotic. It was transferred from animals to humans. Now, the new strand of this virus, COVID-19, has claimed the lives of five in India and thousands globally.

The tough situation is resulting in a lock down in the major states of India. Maharashtra is one of the most affected states, followed by Kerala. All the citizens of India are being instructed to practice social distancing and maintain self-quarantine for at least a few weeks.

These measures will help curb the spread of the virus, resulting in a lower number of deaths. The period of quarantine will restrict you from going out of your house unless necessary. Moreover, the increase in the number of cases in India is leading to the lockdown of various shops.

You must stock up on essential grocery items so that you don’t have to go out during quarantine. The article lists the important grocery items and other essentials, which you should shop to get you and your family through the self-isolation stage.

We conclude this article with the hope that you take the necessary preventive measures to help yourself, your family, and society. Stay safe, guys!

Megha Kothari
 

Megha leads the content strategy and oversees an amazing team of writers, editors, and designers, all having one goal in mind – to create brilliant content that helps people make the right purchase investment. When she is not working, you can find her enjoying making delicious food and planning her next travel.

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