How To Disinfect Packages
Update: Fact-checking the CDCs new guidance: you should still disinfect packages. Heres what you need to know: Avoid the delivery person. If the option is available, choose a no contact delivery.
Its safest and cheapest to wait at least five days before handling or opening the package. Use disinfectant wipes or a cloth dampened with a solution of at least 70% isopropyl alcohol to quickly clean the exterior surfaces of envelopes and packages. Focus on areas that are frequently handled such as flaps, handles, and seams.
Spray down the entirety of the package with Lysol or another virus and germ-killing spray. Redirect your attention to something else, allowing the spray to work its magic. This waiting period also gives the package time to air dry so you dont put your hands on an overly moist, spray-laden box.
After handling the packages and storing them, remove the gloves, throw them away and wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. After the 24-hour period, put gloves on and then open your packages and mail and bring the contents inside. The FDA released updated guidelines on how to safely sanitize food packages, mail, and produce to prevent coronavirus (COVID-19).
Keep Food Safe! Food Safety Basics Safe steps in food handling, cooking, and storage are essential in preventing foodborne illness. You can't see, smell, or taste harmful bacteria that may cause illness. In every step of food preparation, follow the four guidelines to keep food safe: Clean Wash hands and surfaces often.
Separate Don't cross-contaminate. Cook Cook to proper ... Leave your packages in a enclosed area in your garage or on your porch, and wait 5 days before touching them.
By then, if there were viruses on or inside the packages, you can be sure they will have died off. It is recommended that you disinfect them outside your house. You can use disinfectant wipes, a spray, or even a napkin doused with 70% alcohol.
If the goods are non-perishable, you can leave them in your decontamination zone for about three days or until the virus is no longer viable. Find out how following these four simple steps (clean, separate, cook, and chill) can help keep your family safe from food poisoning at home. When you get home, use a disinfectant wipe on food packaging.
Make sure you don't use any such wipes on the food itself. Leave your groceries out for 24 hours, or more, to kill any live virus...
