'Great American Takeout' Aims To Support CA Restaurants Tuesday

CALIFORNIA — A group of national and regional restaurants are joining together for the Great American Takeout, an event set for Tuesday aiming to support the restaurant industry amid a nationwide downturn caused by the new coronavirus outbreak.

California's stay-home order, among the strictest steps taken by any state to contain the spread of COVID-19, forced restaurants to switch to takeout and delivery service only, with dine-in service banned.

"The coalition is asking Americans to order at least one delivery or pick-up meal on Tuesday to show support for the industry," according to a statement by the group of restaurants, which includes Panera Bread, Veggie Grill, California Pizza Kitchen and Chevys Fresh Mex.

The restaurant industry employs about 15 million Americans, according to the group.

According to the CDC, there is no evidence that COVID-19 has infected anyone through food or food packaging. It can survive for hours on surfaces like cardboard and plastic, however.

The coalition of restaurants is asking people who participate to use the hashtag #TheGreatAmericanTakeout on social media, and encourage friends and family to join in the effort by ordering meals themselves.

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