Takeout and Delivery: How to Safely Handle Food

When it comes to pick-up and delivery, allow all purchases to be hands-free, with limited contact. Give contactless drop-off or pick-up, aligning with best practice social distancing

FREMONT, CA: As the effect of COVID-19 on the hospitality industry persists, restaurants have turned to takeout and delivery models, mostly from online ordering platforms. Yet, not all restaurants are equipped for pick-up and delivery systems, and not all menus are designed with packed travel in mind. Here are few tips for restaurants that are currently serving takeout and restaurants that are taking action to launch takeout operations.

Safety First: How to Safely Manage Food for Pick-up and Delivery During Pandemic

Both restaurants must be stricter than ever on the proper treatment of the usual facets of restaurant work. It is essential to avoid the spread of coronavirus while at the same time maintaining quality offerings. Here are a few items to remember about protection during this time:

• When it comes to pick-up and delivery, allow all purchases to be hands-free, with limited contact. Give contactless drop-off or pick-up, aligning with best practice social distancing.

• Limit the number of customers inside the restaurant to pick-ups. Social distancing guidelines require six feet or more between persons.

• Encourage the sidewalk pick-up if it fits the space. Many restaurants gravitate toward this model, eliminating unwanted person-to-person interaction with your staff and your clients.

• Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces, packaging, and equipment using an EPA (Environmental Protection Agency)-registered device. Often look to the mark of the commodity for instructions of use.

• Check-in to evaluate the health of the staff. Take their temperature as they get there before their shifts. If they have had some symptoms, remind them to sit at home until they are well enough to go out.

• Require the employees to wear masks or facial covers and disposable gloves throughout their shifts.

• According to the FDA (Food and Drug Administration), there is no evidence that food or food packaging is involved in the transmission of COVID-19.