Is Ordering Food from Swiggy or Zomato Safe During Lockdowns?

Living alone, preparing meals can be a tedious task, especially during stressful periods like lockdowns. In such situations, many people turn to online food delivery services like Swiggy or Zomato for convenience. This article explores the safety of ordering food during pandemics such as the ongoing one.

Personal Experiences with Food Delivery

I have been ordering food from delivery services during lockdowns for a while now. My preference generally involves preparing either rice or roti and ordering a side dish, either vegetarian or non-vegetarian, based on my mood. I have also indulged in ordering a pizza from time to time, and let's be honest, it does taste fantastic. I understand the allure of a well-cooked, perfectly seasoned pizza, especially when life gets overwhelming.

However, I maintain certain precautions. Before placing an order, I research the restaurant's reviews and ratings. These reviews help me understand the quality of the food and the general customer satisfaction levels. This ensures that my tummy remains happy and my mind at ease.

The Safety Concerns Addressed

During the initial stages of the pandemic, social media was awash with rumors suggesting that the virus could survive on cardboard surfaces and plastics for days. Such claims were quite alarming. However, as research progressed, it became clear that the virus’s survival on surfaces was greatly overestimated.

The virus requires a living host to thrive. Therefore, the chances of it surviving on pizza boxes or plastic containers are minimal. This realization provided a sense of relief to the food delivery industry and its customers alike. During the first lockdown, we strictly followed hygienic measures like paying for our grocery orders online and having them placed near the door without us having to physically touch them. However, ordering pizza or burgers required us to stick to the building's no-delivery-in-precincts policy.

This year, things have changed. We now order from reliable restaurants and make online payments to minimize contact. Upon receiving the food, I wear a mask, sanitize my hands, and heat the food in the microwave before consumption. Recently, during a family dinner, we enjoyed a special pizza feast delivered by Domino's. Last year, during my brother's acceptance into IIIT, we celebrated by ordering from his favorite fast-food restaurant, KFC. This time around, a craving for a tasty McPuff from McDonald's prompted me to place an order.

Hygienic Practices and Safety Tips

While ordering food during lockdowns, it is crucial to maintain basic hygienic practices to ensure safety. Here are some tips:

Choose reputable restaurants with good ratings and positive reviews. Ensure the payment method is secure and contactless. Order during periods with less foot traffic to minimize exposure. Wear a mask, sanitize your hands, and handle the food hygienically upon delivery. Heat the food in a microwave or oven before consumption.

By following these guidelines, one can enjoy the convenience of food delivery services while minimizing the risk of contracting the virus.

Conclusion

Ordering food during lockdowns is perfectly acceptable as long as you take necessary precautions. Supporting local businesses and enjoying occasional treats can bring some normalcy and joy to your lockdown life. Always remember, a little caution goes a long way in ensuring your safety and satisfaction.