As soon as the coronavirus lockdown was announced, people across the country prepared themselves to carefully practice social distancing and stay home as much as possible. Surely, you have seen by now how social distancing changes the rhythm of normal life. For instance, the daily question of what to eat has added on a new, more complicated layer is it safe to order-in food? Regular access to well-cooked food is essential during a lockdown, but restrictions on supermarket timings and long queues make it difficult to rely completely on cooking at home. And you’ve still got to eat and feed your family.

Not to worry. It is possible and safe to get food delivered home during lockdown as well. Food delivery services offer a “contactless delivery” option. When you choose it, your delivery partner will leave the food at your door, and you can pick it up once he leaves. This way, you can maintain social distancing. Paying by cash increases the risk of transmission. Set up UPI, Netbanking, or Payment wallets on your food delivery apps, so you can pay for your delivery online and further prevent any interpersonal contact. You can even tip the delivery executive via the online payment options.

It’s important to avoid contact with any contamination, so to eat worry-free, you just need to take some extra precautions when it comes to the food packaging. The bags, boxes, and foil that are used to pack the food are not essential. These should be thrown away immediately. Treat it like dry waste and take it out to the nearest garbage bin where it can be picked up. Finally, always wash your hands thoroughly with a good antibacterial soap for at least 20 seconds before you eat. This is the most important step. Lockdown doesn't mean you cannot order from your favourite restaurant nearby. Take precautions. Stay safe. Stay healthy.