This year the advent of the holy month of Ramadan finds the country still embroiled by the ongoing pandemic. With infections in the country rising, admittance to intensive care units in hospitals increasing, and fatalities growing in recent weeks, the authorities have introduced several measures to contain the spread of the disease in the country.
A partial curfew in place, from 7pm to 5am the next morning, means that many of the Ramadan engagements planned for after Iftar have had to be cancelled, including social gatherings and visits to residences of relatives and friends. Ramadan shopping, a time of increased activity in the market, has also been dampened this year due to restrictions on movement and the need to maintain social distancing and other health guidelines.
However, there is no reason to abandon all shopping trips to buy Ramadan essentials or purchase the special delicacies usually on offer only during the holy month.
Here are a few tips to ensure you have a safe shopping experience and to make sure that purchases you make are cleaned and stored in the right environment.
1. Wear face masks when shopping and maintain proper distancing from other shoppers. Do not crowd or jostle for space when moving down shopping aisles or at the check-out counters. Wait your turn, be patient and courteous to other shoppers to ensure everyone has a safe and smooth shopping experience.
2. Be sure to buy dry food first and then fresh and frozen products.
3. When you arrive back home, separate fruits and vegetables from raw foods, and wash the products thoroughly before storing them in the refrigerator.
4. Safely get rid of bags and outer covers.
5. Wipe food cans with either antibacterial wipes or any home disinfectant.
6. Reduce overfilling the refrigerator to ensure proper cooling process within.
7. Do not forget to clean the area used to sort and unload food items.
8. Wash your hands with soap and water after receiving delivery requests, and especially before and after preparing food.
