Have a food or nutrition question? Our experts are here to help. Browse below for previously asked and answered questions or fill out the form below to submit your own question.
Check out our Ask Our RDs blog posts too!
Q: Can you get COVID-19 from food?
A: According to both the CDC and FDA, there is currently no evidence to suggest that you can get COVID-19 from food. COVID-19 is transmitted from person to person by being close to someone who has the virus, especially if they cough or sneeze. While it is possible to get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes, this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads. There is currently no association with local or imported food and COVID-19. Read more here.
Q: Do you need to do anything special when preparing food at home to prevent COVID-19?
A: When you consider the time and temperatures involved in transporting food, the likelihood the virus survives the trip to your home is very low. Even so, it is a good idea to keep up with your standard food safety practices at home to prevent other illnesses. Wash your hands before and often while handling food. Rinse all produce before cutting and preparing. Water should do the trick. Do not use any cleaners that are not approved for use on food. Cook all food to the proper temperatures and keep them that way. Keep cold food cold and hot food hot. Read more here.
Q: What is an RD or RDN?
A: Registered dietitian nutritionists (also known as RDs or RDNs) — are the food and nutrition experts who can translate the science of nutrition into practical solutions for healthy living. RDNs use their nutrition expertise to help individuals make unique, positive lifestyle changes. We have over 1,600 RDs on our team! To learn more visit eatright.org.
Q: What does blanching mean?
The word blanch refers to a cooking technique in which food is briefly immersed in steam or boiling water, usually followed by shocking, which is rapidly cooling the food in an ice bath or with cold air. – Chef Mike Panfil, Senior Corporate Chef
Q: Can dried herbs be substituted for fresh?
Yes, but you need to use much less as they are very concentrated and add them at the beginning of the cooking process so they have time to release their flavor. – Chef Mike Panfil, Senior Corporate Chef
Q: Is it okay to drink coffee?
A: Adults should feel free to enjoy that morning (and afternoon) cup of coffee. Unless you have a specific medical reason to limit coffee or caffeine in general, it seems the potential benefits currently outweigh the risks. To get the most from your coffee, limit the add-ins like sugars and syrups that can make the extra calories add up quickly. If you’re not a coffee drinker, you probably don’t need to start for health reasons, but if you do, take it slowly. Caffeine can make you feel a little jittery if you aren’t used to it.
Q: Are energy drinks safe?
A: The key to staying energized is to eat well, stay active and get enough sleep. Moderate intake of energy drinks in healthy adults is likely safe, but probably not the best way to achieve long term energy.
Q: How do I choose a good health app?
A: Look for trusted developers and providers. You want an app that will offer you accurate, helpful content and not compromise your personal information or the security of your mobile device. Ask your healthcare provider. They may have suggestions for apps they have tried. Read the reviews. If an app has consistently negative feedback, it probably isn’t a good choice. For a list of apps reviewed by Registered Dietitians visit https://foodandnutrition.org/tag/apps/.
