CAPE TOWN -
Shopping smart and eating properly goes hand-in-hand with staying fit and healthy during Covid-19.
Discovery Health Head Dietician, Terry Harris, says that buying healthy food that is stored correctly can last longer and also prevent food poisoning.
"While it's important to plan ahead and think what food you will need in the next few weeks, buying more than what you need can mean others will be left without.
"It can also lead to unnecessary food waste - we need to be considerate and responsible with how we shop," said Harris.
Which foods last longer?
Dairy
Fat free long-life milk
You can also freeze fresh milk
Protein
Eggs
Canned fish like pilchards, tuna, sardines
Dried legumes like lentils, chickpeas and beans
Carbohydrates
Dried whole grains like oats, wholewheat pasta and brown rice
Wholewheat bread
Healthy Fats
Avocado and olives
Unsalted seeds and nuts
Nut butters with no added sugar
Storage?
"Having more food in the house can lead to more waste. It's important to store food correctly to extend its shelf life and to save on limited fridge space.
“Refrigerate or freeze high-risk foods like meat, poultry, fish and dairy,” said Harris.
She added that fruit and vegetables like avocados, bananas and potatoes should be kept at room temperature and that these foods release ethylene gas which could cause other fruit and vegetables to spoil.
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