Written By Mitch Larkin

Mitch here!

Now more than ever, it’s important to practice social distancing and self quarantine if possible so that we prevent the spread of COVID-19 and protect the elderly, those who have preexisting conditions and/or compromised immune systems, and the medical professionals who are on the frontlines. Let’s work together so that our healthcare system doesn’t collapse.

Anyway, it goes without saying that in no way am I trying to incite panic with this post or encourage hoarding if your community’s stores are visibly struggling to keep shelves stocked. Use your best judgment and consult your conscience before acting, and remember that there is plenty of food in the country, and we’re not running out anytime soon. (Education re: the United States’ food supply chain = less panic + less hoarding!) But it’s important to realize the value of putting thought into what to buy before heading out to buy supplies. Because the fewer the trips to the store, the better.

I’m no authority on the subject, but I researched and prepared for roughly a month before self-quarantining last week–and since I’ve been getting a lot of questions from friends and family, I’m going to share my process today.