The 6 questions to consider when comparing your options:
What is the best way to avoid COVID-19 exposure from crowds?
Is it truly “contactless” delivery?
How do I limit surface contamination?
Which options follow a full HACCP Program?
What if I am on a specialty diet or have food allergies?
Can I get reliable delivery in my area?
Q: What is the best way to avoid COVID-19 exposure from crowds?
Why this matters: Coronaviruses are generally thought to spread by direct person-to-person contact through respiratory droplets. The best way to avoid exposure is to avoid contact with people who are sick.
Q: Is it truly “contactless” delivery?
Why this matters: If they are offered in your area, contactless options from restaurant delivery services still pose a risk for contamination.
Even though the virus is thought to have poor survivability on surfaces, the short timespan of the restaurant delivery process — from preparation to delivery to consumption — is not enough time to eliminate the exposure concern.
However, according the CDC, there is “very low risk of spread from food products or packaging that are shipped over a period of days … at ambient, refrigerated or frozen temperatures.”
Q: How do I limit surface contamination?
Why this matters: According to the CDC, it may be possible to be exposed to COVID-19 by touching a surface that has the virus on it. Preventive steps for sanitization are crucial.
When it comes to food delivery, the type of packaging your food arrives in matters.