Photo: Getty ImagesOnline grocery delivery has been around for quite some time, but in recent years, more households have come to rely on this handy service. Consider this: a typical grocery run can take hours between driving to the store, shopping, and unpacking at home. With online delivery, you can shop from the comfort of your home and have everything delivered straight to your door, saving you precious time. However, as with anything, it’s not always perfect. Some products don’t handle travel as well as others, so depending on what you need, going to the store might be the better option.
To make the most of your grocery delivery, it's best to stick with items that are sturdy and have a longer shelf life. While fresh produce and meat may not be the best candidates for delivery, you can still easily stock up on pantry staples like canned goods, snacks, nut butter, and grains.
1. Canned Goods
Whether you're buying beans, corn, or other vegetables, canned goods are always a smart addition to your delivery order. They’re not only impervious to damage during shipping, but they’re also perfect for quick meal prep. With their long shelf life, you won’t have to worry about them spoiling anytime soon.
2. Nut Butter
Any variety of nut butter can easily handle the journey from the store to your doorstep, so don’t hesitate to stock up! Most nut butter is shelf-stable before opening, so there's no need to worry about temperature control or the possibility of it going bad.
3. Rice & Grains
Much like canned goods, rice and grains like quinoa and farro are pantry staples that should definitely make it to your cart. There are countless simple, tasty dishes like cheesy quinoa cauliflower or fried rice that you can prepare in no time. Even if you already have a bag of rice in your pantry, grabbing an extra is never a bad idea.
4. Soda & Seltzer
There’s probably no more exhausting task than hauling heavy cases of soda and seltzer from the store to your car and into your home. With delivery, you can save your energy and avoid the strain. Plus, these drinks are often on sale, so it’s the perfect time to grab a good deal.
5. Pet Food
Whether you’re feeding a small kitten or a giant Bernese Mountain dog, ordering pet food and essentials online is a no-brainer. Not only will everything be delivered straight to your door, but you can also take advantage of discounts and promo codes to save even more.
6. Packaged Snacks
Whether you’re preparing for a party or just replenishing your pantry, ordering snacks online is a breeze. Just be sure your shopper handles your items carefully, so your chips and pretzels aren’t crushed under something heavy!
