Check what you have at home first

Take a look at the foods you already have in your refrigerator, freezer, and pantry before you make 

a list; make sure to look at expiration dates and best by dates. This can help you plan meals around 

what you already have, and will help you limit the number of trips to the grocery store and avoid 

spending money on items you don’t need.

Make a shopping list

Shopping may feel more stressful at this time. Make a list ahead of time to stay focused, get the 

items you need, and keep your shopping trip short. Since stores may not have some specific items, 

create a list with general items like “fruit” or “bread.”

Explore your shopping options

Many grocery stores offer in-store pickup, curbside pickup, or delivery. Third party options also exist for 

grocery store delivery. You may find these services helpful during times of social distancing. If you are 

older, check if your store delivers or has early shopping hours for older Americans only.

How much should I buy?

Buy what you and your family need at this time, and resist the urge to buy in much larger quantities. 

Prepare a shopping list that will cover you and everyone in your household for 2 weeks.

Include fresh, frozen, and non-perishable items 

Plan for a mix of fresh, frozen, and shelf-stable foods. Eat your fresh food first. Stock your freezer 

and pantry with items you can eat in the second week and beyond.

During a pandemic, you may be taking extra precautions to keep you and your family safe and 

prepared, including making sure you have everything you need at home. This guide contains 

information on food planning, including what to buy, how much to buy, and preparation tips.

Food Planning 

during the

Coronavirus Pandemic

United States

Department of

Agriculture

Food and Nutrition Service

March 2020

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, 

employer, and lender.
What foods should I buy? 

Choose a mix of shelf-stable, frozen, and fresh foods. Examples of shelf-stable include pastas, rice, 

legumes, nut butters, and dried and canned goods. Frozen options to think about might be breads, 

meats, vegetables, fruits, and even milk. With fresh foods, buy a variety in quantities that you would 

normally buy. Remember to include the special needs of all family members, including pets, infants, 

or those with dietary restrictions.

What should I make?

While everyone is home together, you may feel inclined to try a new recipe or experiment with new 

flavors to keep things interesting. For others, sticking to simple items or familiar foods and tastes 

provides comfort. Plan what works for you and your family. 

Access to food while school is closed

Many school districts across the country are continuing to provide meals to students in need during 

school closures. Check for local programs in your area, such as Meals to You. Contact your local school 

to learn about meals that may be available through pop-up food systems, grab-and-go meal pickups, 

or school bus routes.

Additional Food Planning Resources:

Tips for Every Aisle

Use these tips to fill your cart with budget-friendly and healthy options from each food group.

Sample 2-Week Menus

These sample 2-week menus can be used by any person or family wanting to follow a healthy diet at a modest price.

MyPlate Plan

To learn about your food group targets, use the personalized MyPlate Plan tool.

Activities for Families at Home:

MyPlate: Activities to do with Kids

Activities and printables to get the whole family on board with making healthier choices.

Team Nutrition Cooks!

Cooking-based nutrition activities for children ages 8-12 years old. 

Team Nutrition Games & Activities

Make your way through all the food groups with these fun games and activities.

Contact information:

For solutions to feeding children impacted 

by COVID-19, email FeedingKids@usda.gov. 

Food Planning during the Coronavirus Pandemic

For more information about Coronavirus:

Coronavirus.gov

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)

What the U.S. Government is Doing

Spanish: https://www.usa.gov/espanol/coronavirus

Ready.gov