Pesticides are chemicals used to prevent damage from pests on crops. However, they also pose a threat to human health as they can be harmful if ingested.
Pesticides are chemicals used to prevent crop destruction by pests. However, they can also pose a threat to human health if ingested.
The best way to clean fruits and vegetables is to use a mixture of lemon, vinegar, and water – Photo: Shutterstock
So, how do you properly clean fruits and vegetables? Here are some suggestions from health experts.
Use salt to clean fruits and vegetables
According to the Center for Science and Environment (CSE), washing all types of fruits and vegetables with a mixture of water and salt in a ratio of 10:2 will remove most of the pesticide residues commonly found on the surface of fruits and vegetables.
Illustrative photo: Shutterstock
Soak fruits and vegetables in this mixture for at least two minutes. Then, use a soft toothbrush to gently brush the produce to remove any remaining pesticides on the outside. Finally, rinse the produce with clean water and store them in the refrigerator, according to Livestrong.
Use vinegar to clean fruits and vegetables
According to ndtv, another way to clean fruits and vegetables is to use a mixture of water and white vinegar in a ratio of 9:1 and soak them. Stir them and wash them thoroughly. Be careful when washing juicy fruits such as strawberries, cherries, and grapes, as their thin skin can peel off. Finally, rinse them with running water to remove any remaining residue.
Additionally, the safest way is to peel off the skin before consuming, especially for fruits with furrows.
According to the University of Colorado, mixing lemon juice into the vinegar-water mixture to clean fruits and vegetables helps to eliminate bacteria, including E. coli. Additionally, when shopping, it is necessary to choose carefully and avoid buying damaged produce, according to Healthyeating.
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Frequently asked questions
Properly cleaning fruits and vegetables helps remove dirt, pesticides, and bacteria that can cause foodborne illnesses. It also helps extend the shelf life of produce and ensures that they are safe for consumption.
The best way to clean most fruits and vegetables is to use cold water and gently rub the produce with your hands or a soft brush. You can also use a mild produce wash or a vinegar solution (1 part vinegar to 3 parts water) to help remove pesticides and bacteria. For produce with a lot of nooks and crannies, such as cauliflower or broccoli, it is recommended to soak them in water or a produce wash for a few minutes before rinsing.
It is not recommended to use soap or detergent as it can be difficult to rinse off completely and can leave an unpleasant residue. Instead, opt for a mild produce wash or a vinegar solution, which are safe and effective alternatives.
Peeling can help reduce the risk of consuming pesticides and bacteria that may be on the surface of the produce. However, it is important to note that many nutrients are found in or just beneath the skin/peel of fruits and vegetables. Therefore, whenever possible, it is recommended to thoroughly clean the produce instead of peeling, to retain the maximum nutritional value.
The recommended soaking time is usually around 2-5 minutes. However, be sure to follow the instructions on your chosen produce wash, as different brands may have varying recommendations.
Organic produce is grown without the use of synthetic pesticides, however, they may still come into contact with pesticides used on nearby conventional farms. It is still recommended to thoroughly clean organic produce to remove any potential contaminants.
You can gently shake the produce to remove excess water, or use a salad spinner for leafy greens and herbs. For other produce, you can lay them out on a clean towel or paper towel and let them air dry. Make sure they are completely dry before storing them to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold.
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The best way to clean fruits and vegetables is to use a mixture of lemon, vinegar, and water – Photo: Shutterstock
Illustrative photo: Shutterstock
