That’s why I call my car my home studio.

My department was outsourced this year. So, I have been working as one of those weirdos while I seek new employment. Most businesses seal the food so the driver can’t touch it without it being VERY obvious. (Like a ripped sticker seal) Just know that not everyone delivering is some creep who wants to put poop in your food. I personally don’t even put orders into the cabin of my car. It goes into the trunk inside a sealable cooler that I provide/clean between shifts.

It just means employees of businesses that were able to continue operation during the pandemic lockdowns. Iirc, being a source of sustenance enabled fast food/takeout to remain open. Regardless of the nutritional value offered.

That’s how “essential worker” included both medical professionals and fast food. It is also how certain call centers were still crammed with people unless remote was made available. The phrase was seemingly used to help improve morale for those forced to work while benefits for the unemployed paid out more than their wages.