FAO offers 7 food tips to deal with the COVID19 crisis and answers on its impact on food and agriculture

March 25, 2020, Santiago de Chile - The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has made available a series of questions and answers about the impact of COVID 19 on food and agriculture, in addition to seven tips for healthy eating to face this crisis.

Who is most threatened by their food security and livelihoods due to the pandemic? How will the pandemic affect food demand? Are there risks when interacting with animals or consuming animal products? What are the FAO recommendations to mitigate the effects of the pandemic on food security and nutrition? These are some of the questions that concern the world and that FAO answers at the following link.

In addition to this, the FAO Regional Office for Latin America offers 7 healthy eating tips so that everyone can strengthen their immune systems with a healthy and conscious diet that avoids food waste.

1. Strengthen your immune system through a proper diet 

Increase your consumption of fruits and vegetables, with at least five servings a day. They contain a lot of vitamins A and C, in addition to antioxidants, which will help you fight infections. Eat legumes at least three times a week: they keep for a long time,  are inexpensive and will help you stay healthy, because they are high in proteins and iron.

2. Don't just buy non-perishable food

Instead of buying a lot of pasta and rice, buy fruits, vegetables, and legumes. Did you buy extra fruits and vegetables? No problem: clean, cut and freeze them. You will have them ready for your next preparation.

3. Plan your purchases: buy what is necessary and fair to everyone

This is not only an act of empathy with other people who must also stock up, but it helps you avoid food waste and improve the economy of your home.

4. Don't throw away your leftovers

If you cooked too much, freeze your meals so they last longer to avoid waste, in addition to having a preparation ready for another occasion, without much effort. Remember: food must be in good condition to consume it!

5. Drink plenty of water

Drink at least two liters of water a day to stay hydrated and support your immune system.

6. Make the most of your budget

If your budget is limited, we recommend preferring water to sugary drinks. Take a good look at what you have in the pantry and the freezer. Buy  products according to their duration.

7. Cook with your kids

The confinement in which many of us find ourselves is also an opportunity to cook at home and incorporate children in this activity, so that they learn healthy eating habits from an early age.