Author: Anoop Yersong

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COVID-19: Food delivery is an essential service, but is it safe?

COVID-19: Food delivery is an essential service, but is it safe?

The COVID-19 scenario has given e-commerce platforms the boost that they needed. People are avoiding going to the markets to buy their groceries and are practicing social distancing. It is no wonder that online grocery shopping is fast, efficient, and convenient, so it has become an essential service for the residents. 

Doorstep delivery by startups has ensured that people don’t need to step out of the house to buy supplies. The South African government imposed some of the strictest lockdowns, which is why food delivery services were quick to gain popularity. Understandably, people are concerned about the safety of food deliveries. Whether or not they should be ordering food or groceries from outside is a question that has left everyone in a dilemma. In this article, we’ll decode how safe it is to order food online.

The fast spread of the virus has put our lives on a halt and has affected several communities and businesses of a countless number of people. Startups and residents are trying to curb the spread of the virus by following physical distancing and wearing protective equipment. Online grocery shopping seems like the knight in shining armor during these times. If individuals keep safety measures in mind, they can quickly get their essential items from e-commerce platforms. The pandemic would have left millions of Africans struggling to have access to necessary supplies, had these services not been available. 

Online Payments: No Human-To-Human Interaction

While most grocery stores and shops are closed, individuals are happy to find these same shops go online. The Motley Fool claims that the sales of the popular e-commerce website, Amazon have gone up by 29%. Online shopping can help minimize the spread of the virus. Several sites have already discontinued cash payments, requiring customers to pay for their orders online through various payment methods. By replacing traditional modes of payment, startups ensure the personal safety of delivery agents and customers while reducing the chances of transmitting the virus.  Public health organizations are making recommendations and issuing guidelines to businesses to ensure the optimal protection of the staff and customers.

Offline grocery stores, eateries, cafes, and supermarkets, among other public areas are potential breeding grounds for the coronavirus. The high-risk factor coupled with the need for essential items like food, medicines, healthcare supplies, etc. have made online shopping the ideal choice for people. Several online payment options are available for consumers. 

No Contact is Essential!

Keeping the current scenario in mind, Jumia, which is the largest e-commerce website in Africa, has a contactless delivery policy. In such cases, the delivery agent usually places the order on the customer’s doorstep. This keeps the customers, delivery agents, and retailers safe from the spread of the virus. 

On the other hand, Nedbank has also launched its app by the name of ‘Avo.’ The company claims that the app will be a place where consumers can access all sorts of services and indulge in shopping. Given the current scenario, it provides consumers with a virtual e-commerce platform where they can purchase essential items and make secure payments easily through the app. Before the lockdown was imposed, people had to line up in queues to visit stores and it was really inconvenient for them.

Likewise, other platforms across the country provide customers with reliable services by offering them items without physical contact and cash exchange. As instructed by authorities, delivery agents call the customer beforehand or drop them a text. They then place the package on their doorstep and wait for the customer to receive it while standing a safe distance away. Strict hygiene practices are ensured, and companies check the overall health of the employees every day. 

Benjamin Chapman, who teaches at North Carolina State University, believes that food packaging hasn’t been identified as a potential transmitter of the virus until now. So, the chances of contracting the virus through food remain low. Consumers can lower the risks by using a sanitizer and washing their hands often. This may help to break the progression of the coronavirus. 

These food delivery services by startups are safe and secure since packages are usually sanitized, and strict hygiene measures are in place. These online websites and applications allow people who live in remote areas of the country to order items directly without going out. They have become an ideal alternative and a reliable means of buying essentials. They allow sellers and vendors to have a broader audience while reducing physical contact. The contactless delivery option is the perfect measure, which would have otherwise left people around the globe without a source of income. 

Likewise, local bus firms in Leicester have been equipped with measures to accept online payments. Soon passengers will be able to travel to and from the place without having to pay cash. It is a necessary and crucial measure that will keep passengers and other staff safe. While eateries are still open in the UK and other neighboring countries, customers aren’t allowed to dine in. Takeaway facilities are available. 

The staff in restaurants and eateries ensure to practice hygiene in the workplace and wear protective gear to keep themselves safe and avoid coming in contact with the food items. The delivery agents are instructed to practice hygiene and wear protective equipment. They are trained and made aware by authorities regarding the protocols and measures set by the World Health Organization. Some restaurants have hand sanitizing stations where delivery agents can sanitize their hands before and after delivery. If the food handler follows proper precautions and safety measures, and the exposure is kept to a minimum, online food ordering can be a safe option.  

Things To Keep In Mind

Contactless food delivery doesn’t pose the risks that other interactions do; however, it must be ensured that the food handler and delivery agent are healthy and follow safety precautions. 

If you choose to make payments by a card, make sure to wipe it with alcohol before and after use. Takeaways and cooked meals can be reheated before consumption. Additionally, washing raw vegetables and fruits and sanitizing packets and cans to ensure that they are clean and hygienic is recommended. Always maintain a safe distance while receiving a package, and be sure to check if the delivery agent is wearing proper protective gear. You must order groceries and food from places that are familiar to you. Packaged foods might be safe, but it is still better to sanitize them.

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How Much Should You Spend On Groceries? Optimize Your Expenses!

How Much Should You Spend On Groceries? Optimize Your Expenses! by Now Now Express

It can be frustrating to dig into your purse only to find that you’ve exhausted your monthly budget. Unconsciously, a lot of us end up spending more than the necessary amount of money on groceries, which is why planning a monthly budget and knowing the amount you should be spending on groceries every month is imperative.  How much you should spend on groceries is a tricky question that doesn’t have a black and white answer. There is, however, a guideline that you can work around to save some extra money. It depends on several factors which will be discussed in this article. Staying under a budget ensures that you do not overspend on groceries and consume healthy and nutritious foods. Keep reading to know how much you should be spending on groceries. 

 Ascertain The Amount Of Food You Consume In A Month

First things first, you need to know the amount of food that is consumed in your household. For example, roughly how many bags of flour do you buy in a month? It may be possible that you’re overspending on certain foods and not spending enough on some. Or you may even be purchasing expensive variants of the same item. You need to determine the number of members in your family and get a rough idea of the amount of food. 

  • Size of The Household

The number of members who live in your household also determines how much you should be spending. For instance, a family with four members is likely to spend more than a couple. The suggested budget for a family of four individuals is 892$. The budget may be lower or higher, depending on what people eat regularly. You can also allocate an amount per family member so that you have an idea of how much you should be ideally spending. 

  • Age Factor

You may have a toddler or kids living in the house who may not have the same appetite as adults do and may require different items such as milk, baby food, etc. So the budget of a family with four adults will be different from a family with two adults and two kids. 

  • Special Requirements

There may be individuals in your family who have special dietary requirements. A lot of people are allergic to certain foods and may require different diets. If you or someone in your family consumes gluten-free, nut-free foods, then the cost of groceries will depend on the value of these items. 

Is Dining Out Costing You Your Savings?

The Department of Agriculture in the United States of America claims that Americans spend about 11% of their monthly incomes on dining out. That is a massive chunk of money that is being spent on food items that would cost you very little if you tried to have them at home. Plus, you would also be saving on the traveling expenses if you choose to dine at home. If you enjoy eating out, then make sure that you look for cheaper options.

Keep your monthly budget in mind and spend accordingly. You may even set out to find local, family-run eateries in the vicinity which offer low-costing and nutritious meals. 

Look For Alternatives For Branded Food Items

You may have favorite branded food items that you like, but if they’re taking a toll on your monthly budget, it may be time to cut back or find cheaper alternatives. Generic food items cost less than branded ones, and they may even compete with them in terms of quality. You may find more affordable fruits and vegetables at your local supermarket than at a fancy store. Sometimes the amount of difference may be minimal, but when you try to buy several products that are generic or store-branded, you’ll see that it makes a massive difference to your budget. 

Plan Your Menu: Save Time and Money!

It can be beneficial to plan your weekly or monthly menu ahead of time. It gives you an idea of how much of essential items you would require every week. Try to make everything from scratch. For example, a bag of frozen fries may cost way more than potatoes (which you can turn into fries with a handful of ingredients). Try to experiment with recipes that call for a couple of ingredients. This way, you’ll have something wholesome and fresh on the table while saving some money. 

Try to make larger meals so that there is enough left for the next day. You’ll save a lot of energy. You may even try making extra gravy to add anything you like to the leftover gravy. Make some chicken curry and toss in some cottage cheese or tofu to the leftover curry to have a new meal. Bingo!

Stay Under Your Budget

It can be tempting to buy that expensive lunch meal or pick up things that you don’t need, but it can be an enriching experience to save a massive amount of money every month without compromising on your nutrition. So, try to stay under your budget and always look for discounts, coupons, and sales, which might help you score a deal. If you tend to spend a great deal on coffee, then make some at home and carry it around in a flask. 

Find The Ideal Grocery Store

It might be possible that the supermarket or store that you usually buy your groceries from may be overcharging you. Or it may be possible that they’re not giving you discounts that other grocers do. Always try to look for other grocery stores or search for websites online which provide food items at a reasonable price. You may also look for flyers in magazines and newspapers and know more about offers that are running in stores. You can also try to source your essential items from local vendors, farmers, and suppliers who supply eateries. 

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Having a food budget for the month will help you save a considerable amount of money. You’ll have more savings to finance luxurious items that you’ve always wanted. Plan ahead of time, make a budget, and get started right away!

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Monthly Grocery List to Save Your Time and Money

Monthly Grocery List to Save Your Time and Money - Now Now Express

Shopping can be a challenging task, especially if you keep spending more than your monthly budget. Most people end up going to the grocery store every week. It can be extremely frustrating to go out when you’ve got dozens of chores at home. A lot of us end up picking up things that they don’t need. I think we’re all guilty of buying fancy snacks that look good only on the wrapper. Plus, time is a luxury, and people end up spending a majority of it trying to think of all the things that they need. To add to the nightmare, sometimes, they end up forgetting to pick up essential items. 

Well, fret not! A monthly grocery list comes to your rescue. It is a great way to turn things around, and it is a lot easier than it sounds. With some preplanning, you can save several trips to the grocery stores and save time and money. Keep reading to know how you can sail through the month by making a list. 

How Is Shopping Once A Month Beneficial?

Shopping once a month can help you save a significant chunk of your time and money. It can be beneficial for those on a budget and want to stay within a specific price range. It can help you avoid picking up unnecessary things and reduce food wastage. It requires some preplanning, discipline, and, most of all, self-control. 

People think that shopping once a month would deprive them of their favorite foods, and they’ll have to munch on leftovers and ready-to-cook meals for the last week of the month. But that’s not true at all. You can have healthy and nutritious meals and eat fresh food throughout the month. You can do this by stocking up on crucial things which may include milk, vegetables, fruits, canned foods, flours, rice, and other essential items. Buying in bulk can help you save money since certain items are priced at cheaper rates if they’re bought in large quantities, and since you won’t run out of these essential items, you’ll save plenty of time too! 

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Map It Out And Know Your Goals

While you don’t necessarily have to pre-plan your meals, you need to know how much of every ingredient you need in a month. You can do that by multiplying your weekly groceries by 4. How much salt would you need in a month? Write it down. Likewise, make a list of all the items that you need. These items should be staples or things that you consume regularly. 

You can consume fresh vegetables during the first two weeks and then move on to the canned, frozen goods. This way, you won’t be depriving your body of any nutrients. 

You can also find substitutes for things that you frequently need. For instance, you can use powdered milk instead of buying milk every day. You need to include foods with a longer shelf life so that you can avoid another trip to the grocery store. Your goal should be to buy cheaper fares without compromising on quality. 

Learn More About Shelf Life

Some items can last for weeks, while some will go bad in a few days. Knowing how long each of them lasts is imperative. You must also know how to store each item in such a way that it stays fresh while its nutritive value isn’t compromised. You can start by dividing your grocery list roughly into three categories. 

Freezer Friendly and Canned Foods:

Some vegetables like peas, carrots, and corn can stay fresh in the freezer for months. People usually assume that freezing food would make it lose its nutritional value, but that isn’t true. Canned tomatoes, peaches, pineapples, etc. taste as good as fresh ones. Canned tomatoes are perfect for quick gravies and curries. 

Since these foods can stay good for a month (and even more in some cases), you can keep a stock of them and use them during the last two weeks of the month. Meat can be kept in the freezer, and it would stay good for a long time. Simply take it out an hour or two before you want to cook it. Fresh milk can be frozen too, but it might taste different and have a different texture later. These foods also cost less than fresh fruits and vegetables, so it’s better to stock up on them to have more variety and to save some extra cash. 

Packed Foods:

Flours, legumes, rice, pasta, spices, herbs, and other dry essential items can stay good for a long time. Although, in some seasons, you need to be careful with flours as they may be infested with insects. Make sure to store everything in air-tight containers. This keeps the food secure and safe from pests and insects. 

Fresh Fruits And Vegetables:

There are certain fruits and vegetables which can stay good for weeks, and knowing their shelf life can help you pre-plan your meals. For example, potatoes can be kept at room temperature for around 2-3 weeks, while Apples will stay nice in the fridge for about 4-8 weeks! Capsicums, leafy vegetables, string beans, cucumbers, and broccoli will remain fresh in the refrigerator for about 1-2 weeks. Garlic is a handy ingredient that can stay perfect for months at room temperature.

Stay Within Your Budget And Save Money: Ka-ching!

Set up a monthly budget and set aside an amount that you would require for your groceries and other essentials. You may even find out that you’re spending more than your budget. In such a case, you need to reduce the amount you’re spending. You can do this by buying generic items. Always make the most of the sales in your vicinity and stock items that won’t go bad anytime soon.

When you buy in bulk, you’ll save a significant amount of money. A 10kg bag of flour would cost way less than say, a 2kg bag. You’ll also be saving on the amount that you would’ve spent to go to the grocery store. If there are cheaper and healthier alternatives to the things that you regularly eat, make sure to switch over to them. 

Sometimes stores have aisles and counters where you can buy trial packs or travel-sized items. These can be handy if you’re going on a trip. Since you’ll be buying mindfully, there’s no fear of food items going bad.

PRO TIP: Always have a wholesome snack before you step out to shop. This will help curb any hunger pangs you have, and you won’t spend money because of a craving. Those pickles might look nice in the jar, but you don’t need them in your kitchen right now. 

Do’s and Don’ts Of Grocery Shopping

If it’s your first time making a monthly grocery list, it’s very easy to feel overwhelmed and add in things that you don’t need. Make sure that you only include items that you are likely to cook throughout the month. You can also allocate a certain amount of money per head and buy your groceries accordingly. For example, if you only want to spend 20$ per person in a month, you will have to pre-plan your meals accordingly. 

Ensure to include nutritious and healthy foods. It can be tempting to grab a jumbo bag of potato chips, but you must refrain from adding unnecessary items to your cart. Avoid going to the market as much as possible, since you may reach out for expensive items that you don’t require. For extra savings, keep an eye on the discount codes in flyers and brochures that are often sent in the mail.

A major mistake that most people do is that they end up buying too much of one thing and not enough of another. Make sure that you add enough of each category so that you’re on a balanced diet. Don’t panic if you run out of groceries in the first few weeks; it only means that you may have estimated the food requirements incorrectly. It gives you a chance to correct your shopping list for the next month. Also, be sure to stick to your list. Always ask yourself one question: Do I want it, or do I need it?

You can’t fit in everything in the fridge, so make sure that you don’t overspend on frozen or canned foods. Storage space should be one of your primary concerns. Always store extra supplies in a clean, dry area. Keep your kitchen counters clean and store essential items in cabinets. Think about it this way: you have a pantry, a fridge, and a freezer. Divide your supplies between these three, according to their shelf life. It would be inconvenient to have stacks of essentials lined on your kitchen counter. Make space for new supplies by throwing away any expired ones. Consume the things that are likely to go stale first. 

Clean your fridge and your cabinets a day before your shopping trip so that you have enough space to keep your essential items. Shop only as much as the space you have. It will help you keep things organized. You may have to go to the grocery store more than once. Even if you’re going to the store a lot less than you usually do, it’ll be worth the benefits you garner. 

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As lockdown fuels food shortages, Africa goes online for groceries

As lockdown fuels food shortages, Africa goes online for groceries - Now Now Express

Jumia, which offers the largest e-commerce platform across the African continent, has reported a massive spike in grocery requirements. It has recorded a demand that is four times more in the first four months than the previous year. The sales were also recorded to be twice as much in the last month. According to their managing director in Ivory Coast, the demand has presently grown thrice as much. 

This points to the fact that the current COVID-19 scenario has made people from African countries resort to online shopping. While residents previously went to nearby markets and shops to get their essentials, they now think it is safer and more convenient to shop online. The lockdown imposed in these countries also disabled them from getting groceries and supplies from nearby vendors. As a result, online grocery shopping skyrocketed. 

One can get fresh fruits and vegetables with just a few clicks. It has made several shops go online to increase their sales and compete to deliver fresh food to residents. Fresh in a Box, the Market Garden app and Tambula are only three of the many start-ups which are loaded with orders. It is convenient and ensures that people get better quality supplies without even stepping out of the house. Some residents also claim that these groceries are three times cheaper than what they used to pay. 

Gareth Paterson, the retail lead for Nielson in South Africa, claims that online shopping will still be an ideal choice for people even after the lockdown ends. The variety of fruits and vegetables available online ensures that people get their daily dose of nutrients from fresh produce. It is also a great way to curb the spread of the virus by making people stay at home. Since the lockdown has made it difficult for people to have access to healthful and wholesome supplies, several organizations say that malnutrition rates will rise higher. 

In South African countries like Zimbabwe and Namibia, measures that are put in place to curb the spread of the coronavirus have made it harder for people to access reasonably-priced, healthy foods, sparking warnings from health organizations that the pandemic will worsen malnutrition rates. Authorities in the World Health Organization also estimate that about 73 million people in the country lack access to nutritional supplies. The pandemic is worsening the condition of the people who already had little to no access to food. The lack of movement allowed during the lockdown and other measures that have been put have risen the level of food shortages. 

The coronavirus outbreak has threatened people across the people who fear that they might die of hunger. Nationwide lockdowns worldwide and physical distancing have already made people lose their jobs and struggle to buy necessary supplies. The disruption in attaining produce and supplying it to different parts of the city is a task in itself. Millions of people are left to wonder how they’ll find nutritious food to keep them alive. 

To say that the pandemic is affecting the middle class and the working class the most would be an understatement. People belonging to these classes struggle to have access to food and are fearing starvation. There have been hunger crises before, but nothing like this that has left the entire world shook to the core. Vendors have to face several bumps, including problems in procuring seeds and fertilizer, issues during harvesting, and disruptions in transportation. The restrictions are already making people suffer who are displaced and live far away from their families. 

To ease the burden of the poor, people have already started programs to offer supplies and essentials at affordable prices. 

Researchers from the IFPRI have also stated that since the global GDP would plummet down a whopping 5 percent, making over 145 million people go into extreme poverty. This is extremely alarming, given that there are already millions of people who are facing the consequences of the lockdown. The situation is genuinely saddening, and there is a lot that is still uncertain. 

Online Grocery Shopping Websites Come To The Rescue

Several new websites are being launched amid the lockdown so that people can buy their groceries by merely clicking a few buttons on their devices. The technology is still new for people who used to buy groceries from shops and stores. It is hassle-free, and dozens of startups even ensure to offer a free delivery service. With a sudden rise in orders, some websites have started to crash while some companies are struggling to find local farmers to supply customers with fresh fruits and vegetables. It is an excellent way to act as a bridge between small-scale farmers and customers. 

Consumers still prefer not to go to stores and outlets and are opting for no-touch options. Apart from groceries, one can procure other essential supplies online as well. This massive surge in usage of online platforms has sort of sparked a battle between online platforms that compete to serve their customers and offer the lowest price possible. 

While online shopping of clothes, footwear, gadgets, and other items was quite common, customers have started to enter the realm of online grocery shopping. Consumers were quite hesitant when it came to buying essentials online, and this category was one that gained popularity the slowest. But the current coronavirus scenario, coupled with the lack of allowance of the movement, has made people resort to online shopping as the last option. 

It is quite surprising that while over half the population of South African countries had access to the internet, only a meager 1-2% bought their groceries online, and online, a tenth of the community purchased groceries online in the past year. This points to the fact the lockdown has resulted in behavioral changes and a change in buying patterns that are going to last even after the lockdown ends. Fuss-free services like the one-click checkout, discounts, online payment options, and much more seem quite attractive to the population. It shows that online grocery shopping has a promising future, and there are growing areas that have the potential to grow more. 

Are Start-Ups Ready To Meet The Growing Demands?

After looking at several websites crashing and startups failing to deliver because of the surplus of orders, it is still questionable whether companies would meet the expectations and fulfill the customers. Several companies are already working at their full capacity. With a plethora of restrictions, it can be challenging to deliver groceries during the time frame while ensuring optimal quality of the supplies. 

Not only companies in the African continent, but several startups around the world are facing similar challenges. Several companies are delaying deliveries because of the restriction of the movement of transport. Retailers are struggling to procure and manage a large number of supplies. The logistics category has also seen an increase in growth because of the growth in online sales. This is a clear sign that online grocery shopping is beneficial for consumers in plenty of ways. 

More Room For New Technology 

With the increase in online shopping, startups have started to develop new technologies that can help customers place orders quickly. Those who are new to online ordering can also use the ‘Call To Order’ facility. Online subscriptions and no-touch deliveries are some of the latest innovations which are adding to the ease of online ordering. Some services also allow people to pick up orders from a nearby pickup-point. Offline retailers have also shifted their business online since the platform will enable them to reach out to a broader audience while delivering fresh vegetables and fruits. Residents are pleased that their favorite stores now offer doorstep services.

The number of technological advancements that are currently underway only highlights the fact that there is a lot of room for sustainable development in terms of online shopping. This means that there will continue to be an increase in online shopping, with a large percentage of the population permanently switching to e-commerce platforms to get fresh produce. 

Even though online consumers form quite a small portion, the behaviors that have been changed during the lockdown will continue to be this way. Even after the pandemic ends, these current shopping habits will most likely be permanent. They will probably make people more open to buying items from other categories such as electronics, home appliances, etc.   

Startups also have a significant roadblock ahead of them. It is to provide offline consumers with a platform that is similar to the one that they are used to. They must provide consumers with the same optimal-quality produce that they get in the stores near them. It is a daunting task to ensure quick delivery while also offering low prices, discounts, and maintaining stock inventories. This must be done to win first-time buyers’ hearts who may be hesitant to buy their groceries online. It is also crucial for companies to shift their businesses online, in light of the current situation. 

A practical outcome of the pandemic is that people are becoming more open to using the e-commerce platform. They are also learning more about how buying their functional offline may cost them a lot more than buying them online. Buying their supplies in bulk could help them save a significant chunk of money. 

A Ray Of Hope For Small-Scale Farmers and Vendors

These online platforms are proving to be extremely helpful for vendors who now have a massive flow of orders from local customers. Home-based entrepreneurs are also benefiting from the new-found admiration of online shopping during the pandemic. Since the expenses are high and profits are almost null, plenty of home-based businesses and entrepreneurs have nowhere to go, except online. Local goods and traditional foods are also sold online, while the vendors take about 35% of the profit from the sales. Ingredients that are traditionally used in recipes are sold online. This enables localities to have a minimal source of income while selling their goods. While this amount may not be enough for them, it may help them get back on their feet. 

Vendors and retailers also noticed a sudden surge in online shopping as the outbreak grew worse. They realized that people wanted to get their product delivered to their doorstep while avoiding going out to the market, and e-commerce platforms were an ideal option for their needs. Customers learned that they could save up to 15 percent by shopping online, and every penny makes a big difference, especially for those on a budget. These platforms also ensure that food wastage and food hoarding are minimized to a great extent. 

These services are becoming quite ‘normal’ or residents amid the lockdown. The crashing websites are proof that consumers are more open to trying out new technology to ensure that they have a contactless transaction. Websites with hardly any traffic see an overwhelming response. So much so that they had to lay out new plans to make their website able to handle more traffic. Plenty of other sites are facing a similar situation. 

An e-commerce website that had over 300 customers before the pandemic had over a thousand new consumers afterward. Vendors are slowly recovering the loss that they had incurred in their businesses. This will help them cope up and earn a living for their families. After the lockdown, a number of startups have started coming up with their websites.

Providing Help Through Food Remittance Services

The lack of allowance of movement and the shortage of supplies has made it difficult for people abroad to get supplies. Food trade across borders has been affected to a large extent. Residents living in African countries usually pay taxi drivers to send supplies and essential items to their families living far away. 

Dozens of websites help people to order groceries for their loved ones, that can be picked up from a pick-up center near them. Through these websites, people can get groceries to their loved ones within a couple of days rather than the several weeks it took to send groceries. The future of online grocery shopping looks so promising to several startups that they’re looking forward to expanding their businesses beyond Africa. 

The lockdown may cause a lot of inconveniences, but it has allowed consumers to explore a new realm of technology while following physical distancing protocols. Online shopping is slowly becoming the ‘regular’ affair for consumers across the globe. 

It seems that the pandemic has given e-commerce platforms in Africa the push they needed. Online shopping of essentials brings relief in these stressful times by allowing people to stay at home to get their supplies. Home-based businesses and entrepreneurs are exposed to the world. They have a large platform now, not to mention a broad audience to showcase their products. 

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Tips for Grocery Shopping During Coronavirus Pandemic

Tips for Grocery Shopping During Coronavirus Pandemic - Now Now Express

During the current scenario, grocery shopping can almost be like fighting for survival. With people fighting over the last bag of rice at grocery stores and websites running out of supplies every minute, it can be quite hectic to find the essential items that you require. It can be overwhelming to check websites every few seconds to see if grocery items are back in stock. It can be a whole different story if you’re searching for groceries in a supermarket. 

You may come across empty aisles or a shortage of supplies. Whether you’re struggling to order groceries for yourself or if you want to send food to Nigeria to your loved ones, you need to find smart ways to indulge in grocery shopping. In times like these, it’s crucial that you are ready to use some tips and tricks to take your shopping game up a notch. Keep reading to familiarize yourself with these simple tips.

Make a List For Grocery Shopping

Make a list of all the groceries that you require. Do this way ahead of time. Keep an eye on the supplies that you have in your pantry. If you’re running out of rice, plan and add it to your cart. This way, your order would arrive before your stock is over. It is essential to know which items are a staple in your kitchen. In Nigeria, parboiled rice, beef, spices, herbs, etc. are commonly used in the kitchen. Ascertain the amount of rice, flour, vegetables, fruits, and other essential items that you’re going to need in the next month and order accordingly. Some websites give advantage to specific payment methods. Go for those methods for extra savings. 

Be careful not to go on a buying binge. The internet is perpetually teeming with alluring things. Don’t fall for something that isn’t needed. Just think you have a fixed budget and find and buy only that for which you opened that website. Maintaining a list will help you to stay under your budget. But what you only need, not too much nor too little. No matter how great the discount. There might be others who need it more than you!

Add A Tip

At times like these, everyone is struggling to make a living. So, if you’re someone who can afford to give a tip to the delivery agents, make sure to do so. This will help the community, and the delivery agent might deliver your orders earlier than usual if he regularly delivers supplies in your area. It can help you maintain a good relationship with the delivery agents. Online transactions are the need of the hour, so be sure to keep the cash exchange minimal. Always make payments online or find alternative ways to pay for your order. 

Some websites allow you to pay a specific amount for tipping online. Cash exchange may only promote the transmission of the virus and increase the risk of catching it. 

Timing Matters!

If you’re going out to shop in a supermarket, make sure that you head out earlier during the day or times when the supermarket is more likely to be less crowded. This way, you will save plenty of time and also be able to grab fresh groceries. Timing is imperative even if you’re ordering online. Several stores open up their delivery slots at odd hours, so if you happen to be up during the early hours of the day, you may score a suitable timing slot. Slots are usually unavailable when there’s a high demand for supplies. You’ll be able to notice a sort of pattern once you start ordering regularly. Don’t wait until the last minute to order items. 

Check whether the delivery date is suitable. Sometimes websites and applications may show delivery dates that are weeks away. Make sure that you have enough supplies that will last you until then. 

Order In Bulk

Grocery shopping in bulk can be beneficial, especially if you have a big family. Packaged, canned, or dry foods can be ordered in a larger quantity. Such items are less likely to go stale, and so there are minimal chances of food wastage. Flours like bean flour, yam flour, rice flour, etc. are popularly used in Nigeria. You can order them in bulk to save money. Sometimes you may find free items with certain products if you buy them in bulk. Make the most of such offers. 

You can also look for substitutes for fresh items that can be stocked up. For instance, raw milk may go bad in a few days, but milk powder is an ideal alternative that you can stack in your pantry. Likewise, you can replace fresh tomatoes with canned tomatoes and freeze vegetables, which will stay fresh in the freezer. 

Find Food Distributors In Your Area

If you can’t find essential items on websites, apps, or local supermarkets, you can try to get in touch with distributors who provide local eateries and restaurants with supplies. You may even get amazing discounts or lower prices. You can ask restaurant owners to give you numbers or distributors in your area. You will be able to get fresh vegetables and fruits. If you live near a rural area, you can ask vendors or local farmers to give you extras. 

Some distributors may even require you to visit their warehouses or inventory facilities to buy essential items. 

Indicate If You’re Running Low On Supplies

Some websites have a ‘notes’ section under your orders, where you can specify if you have specific requirements. Be sure to let the grocers know that you’re going to be running out of supplies soon so that they can prioritize your order. Likewise, you can let your local grocery store know that you’re in need of essential items. Many websites display if certain items are low in stock or out of stock. You can also add a note and notify the grocers if some item in your order is ‘high priority’ and is needed on an urgent basis. 

Stay Updated

Discounts and deals can always be found in flyers. If you see offers on items, make sure to grab them. If you’re buying products whose prices are subject to change (for example, veggies or fruits), then, if possible, try to understand what price they are selling in your vicinity or your locality. Some supermarkets may charge extra for things that are available for much lower prices elsewhere. Staying updated about the pricing will help you save some extra cash. 

Find Grocery Pickup Services 

Street or curbside pickup services are gaining popularity like never before. The chances are that there might be services that deliver groceries to your curb or a parking lot. Sam’s club by Walmart is a popular service that offers curbside pickup in the US. These may be a lot safer than getting groceries delivered to your doorstep. Generally, they have several time slots that open up often. Add items to your cart and wait for the slots to be available. 

Always receive packages while staying a meter away from the delivery agent. Be sure to check whether the delivery agent is wearing gloves and a mask. Likewise, make sure always to receive packages while wearing a mask and gloves. 

As notified by authorities, public libraries in the US can offer curbside pickup service s so make sure that you find out about services provided in your area. 

Try Your Local Pharmacy

If your local supermarket and grocery stores have run out of supplies and it’s impossible to find them online, you may try to look for items at your local pharmacy. You will be surprised to know that pharmacists keep a stock of your essential daily needs. Toiletries and bathroom essentials can be easily found. If you’re lucky enough, you may find fresh eggs or other items. 

PRO TIP: If you see that your favorite brands have run out of stock, make sure to look for substitutes. If alternative options are available, snag them right away. There may be generic items that are much cheaper than branded ones and offer much better quality. Do consider switching to these during your grocery shopping. 

Stay In Touch With The Locals

Sometimes the locals in your area may know where you can find the best-priced supplies. Unfortunately, with physical distancing measures in place, you can’t meet your friends for a coffee and discuss the prices of local commodities. It’s best to join groups on social media platforms to stay informed. You can also stay connected with the local grocers to know when the new stocks of supplies will be coming in. Some websites in Nigeria, like Now Now Express, will help you find the best offers and deals on supplies. 

Lastly, make sure to wash your fruits and vegetables, sanitize your packaged items, and keep everything squeaky clean. These handy tips and tricks will help make your grocery shopping more comfortable than ever. Getting items delivered to your doorstep has never been more accessible. 

Whether you’re running from one store to another to find your essential supplies or if you want to have groceries delivered in Nigeria, Now Now Express will save you from the crowds at the supermarkets! Plus you’ll get to save a significant chunk of money.