The U.S. is beginning to see the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic that triggers the stockpiling of kitchen supplies.
According to Today.com, the U.S. is now entering into a new phase as the number of daily new cases hit a record high this past few days.
The surge was most pronounced in the Midwest and Southwest and is rising in all but three states. These events are now posing a concern that could lead the country into another round of lockdowns to contain the virus.
Consumers panicking for COVID-19 second wave
NBC Philadelphia reported that with the second wave of COVID-19 at hand, consumers are aggressively stocking up on various foods, and grocery retailers across the nation are scrambling to restock shelves.
Rastelli Market Fresh in New Jersey Director of Operations, Chris Mentzer, echoes this by saying that they are now seeing the start of the second wave of panic.
He adds that many customers are looking for any type of freezer to purchase to begin stocking up their homes now and that the main concern is meat. He further explains that they are now seeing anything that can be microwaved quickly, flying off the shelves.
However, in order to keep you and your family's immune system healthy and ready for the second wave, it's helpful to have nutritious fresh, frozen, and pantry foods on hand at home. Here are several must-haves to keep in your kitchen at home.
Fresh Food
It is always vital to keep a mix of fresh fruits and vegetables. Citrus fruits like clementines and grapefruits provide immune-supporting vitamin C. Meanwhile, hardy veggies, like broccoli, cauliflower, and brussels sprouts, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Food that is essential for the production of immune system cells like milk, yogurt, cottage cheese, and eggs must also be on your list. However, keep in mind to eat perishable items first before consuming your longer-lasting foods.
Pantry Food
You can find nutritious gems like canned chickpeas and black beans that provide a slew of critical nutrients around the store, and you focus on minimally processed foods. Nuts and seeds also have unique superpowers like high anti-inflammatory omega-3s and polyphenol antioxidants. Like mango, prunes, and figs, dried fruits have essential nutrients, including fiber and antioxidants.
Additionally, you would want to keep several types of whole grains to eat as side dishes to help lessen the risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease. This includes quinoa, oats, and whole wheat. Plus, do not forget to buy whole-grain loaves of bread, cereals, and crackers, too.
Reliable and typical pantry staples like canned tuna and salmon are a good source of selenium and zinc. These are minerals necessary for your immune system.
Frozen Food
To help reduce meal prep fatigue, you can opt for Frozen veggies since they are also just as nutritious as fresh ones.
To brighten cold, dark, and isolating days ahead, Frozen and canned fruits can also be healthy options. You can also keep a variety of frozen meals and then cook it with whole food ingredients, such as pulses and vegetables, to create a healthy and easy meal.
