Coronavirus: Ramadan grocery shopping tips to avoid hoarding

Ramadan shopping can be challenging, with different plans for iftar and suhour. Now, with restrictions related to the Coronavirus, it is as important as ever to plan well before you head outdoors.

Dubai Municipality issued guidelines for shoppers, with the top advice being to shop online.

Also, if you are feeling unwell stay indoors.

1. Make a meal plan, listing out each day's iftar and suhour plan.

Make sure you discuss the meal plan with the whole family, to get their input. Fewer last minute changes take place when everyone is on board.

Before you step out, take a look at your pantry as well to make sure you do not repeat items.

Take as many steps as you can to avoid food waste.

To read the guide, visit https://gulfnews.com/1.1586442300849

Dubai Municipality advised people to shop for dry foods first and then for fresh and frozen foods.

Don't buy everything in bulk, but there are items that you can stock up on.

This includes pantry staples, canned food ...

... frozen items and household essentials.

Make sure you don't mindlessly purchase, though, as you don't want expired food on your hands.

When it comes to fresh foods and dairy products, you can space the shopping out to a maximum of two times in a week.

Don't stuff your fridge to ensure proper cooling.

If you order groceries online follow certain precautions as well.

Online searches for 'online grocery' spiked by 560 per cent in the first three months of 2020.

Choose e-payment, or payment by card if possible.

Opt for contactless delivery.

As the novel Coronavirus stays alive on inanimate objects for long, make sure you discard the boxes and cartons safely.

Wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds once you have handled the packages.