Vocabulary:
- scrumptious /SKRUHMP-shuhs/
- lie /lahy/
- hazard /HAZ-erd/
- cross-contamination /kros kuhn-tam-uh-NEY-shuhn/
- opt /opt/
[adjective] – tasting extremely good
The children haven’t had scrumptious food in a long time.
[verb] – if responsibility, blame, a decision, a choice, etc. lies with someone, they have responsibility, must make the decision, etc.
The responsibility to keep the community clean lies within its residents.
[noun] – something that is dangerous and likely to cause damage
Working in construction is full of hazards so always be careful.
[noun] – the process by which a substance that is harmful or dirty spreads from one area to another
They make sure to do every step carefully to avoid cross-contamination.
[verb] – to make a choice, especially of one thing or possibility instead of others
Jin said to opt for honey instead of sugar to sweeten things since it’s healthier.
It’s your sister’s birthday, and you want to treat her to this scrumptious pasta that you made. Or maybe your friend wants to share with you his special beef stew. Are you craving for some burgers that you want to have it delivered to your doorsteps? Maybe you want to share some of the cookies you baked to your neighbor. Making food and sharing it with your loved ones are just some of the ways that we can physically connect with others in this time of pandemic. But the question lies whether it’s safe or not.
The general answer is yes. This is according to Elizabeth A. Bihn, professor at Cornell University’s Food Science Department. The odds of coronavirus transmission from sharing food or getting it from the food packaging is very low, but of course everyone should still take preventive measures. Moreover, viruses shouldn’t be the only concern.
The following tips are helpful to prevent the hazards of acquiring viruses or food-borne illnesses. Check them out:
Preparing food
There are “four core practices” according to the Partnership for Food Safety Education. These four are: clean, separate, cook, and chill. Ensure that you sanitize your hands, tools, and surfaces properly to avoid cross-contamination. Rinse them with cool running water and never use bleach or soap to clean produce. Foods should be cooked accordingly and should be stored right away. It also isn’t necessary to wear a mask while preparing the food you’re going to share; however, if it prevents you from constantly touching your face, go ahead.
Delivering food
Opt for contactless delivery as much as possible. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention mentions that coronavirus mainly spreads via droplets from coughing or sneezing of an infected person, so in-person delivery is risky. In delivering food, remember to take precautionary measures. Wear a face mask, place the food to be delivered in a location at least six feet away, and then let the receiver pick it up.
Packing and unpacking food
Place foods inside plastic wraps or aluminum foils, or in reusable containers. It prevents food from contamination during delivery. When it comes to unpacking food, Dr. Bihn suggests that we do the following: Bring the food, and clear space for the containers. If the food is inside a bag, place it on the floor and then remove it. Open the containers and transfer the food to another one. Wash bags and containers if reusable, and get rid of them if not.
Dr. Bihn admits that not everybody will go through this process all the time. But if you’re bothered, following these measures will surely increase your peace of mind. The chances of virus transmission from food or the packaging is not likely to happen. Just remember to sanitize your hands always.
The general answer is yes. This is according to Elizabeth A. Bihn, professor at Cornell University’s Food Science Department. The odds of coronavirus transmission from sharing food or getting it from the food packaging is very low, but of course everyone should still take preventive measures. Moreover, viruses shouldn’t be the only concern.
The following tips are helpful to prevent the hazards of acquiring viruses or food-borne illnesses. Check them out:
Preparing food
There are “four core practices” according to the Partnership for Food Safety Education. These four are: clean, separate, cook, and chill. Ensure that you sanitize your hands, tools, and surfaces properly to avoid cross-contamination. Rinse them with cool running water and never use bleach or soap to clean produce. Foods should be cooked accordingly and should be stored right away. It also isn’t necessary to wear a mask while preparing the food you’re going to share; however, if it prevents you from constantly touching your face, go ahead.
Delivering food
Opt for contactless delivery as much as possible. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention mentions that coronavirus mainly spreads via droplets from coughing or sneezing of an infected person, so in-person delivery is risky. In delivering food, remember to take precautionary measures. Wear a face mask, place the food to be delivered in a location at least six feet away, and then let the receiver pick it up.
Packing and unpacking food
Place foods inside plastic wraps or aluminum foils, or in reusable containers. It prevents food from contamination during delivery. When it comes to unpacking food, Dr. Bihn suggests that we do the following: Bring the food, and clear space for the containers. If the food is inside a bag, place it on the floor and then remove it. Open the containers and transfer the food to another one. Wash bags and containers if reusable, and get rid of them if not.
Dr. Bihn admits that not everybody will go through this process all the time. But if you’re bothered, following these measures will surely increase your peace of mind. The chances of virus transmission from food or the packaging is not likely to happen. Just remember to sanitize your hands always.
Comprehension Questions:
- How does coronavirus mainly spread according to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention?
- What do we need to do to prevent cross contamination in foods?
- What are the precautionary measures we can take when we opt for in-person delivery?
- What are the steps that Dr. Bihn recommends people should do in unpacking food?
- Are we at a high risk of getting coronavirus from food or its packaging?
Discussion Questions:
- In your opinion, why is ordering food online becoming increasingly popular?
- Have you ever prepared food for others? Why or why not?
- How has the coronavirus pandemic changed your daily routine?
- What do you do to keep yourself healthy during this pandemic?
- Where is the best place to eat in your town? Please describe the place and the food.