Book 9, Question 122
Why Wash Produce Even If You’ll Peel It?
We wash produce even if we will peel it because the knife can carry dirt and germs from the skin into the part we eat! Peels touch soil, hands, boxes, and shelves. A simple rinse is an easy way to lower the risk, and it only takes a few seconds.
More fun facts
- Washing produce is one simple way to lower the risk from germs and chemicals on it.
- For a basic wash, hold produce under running water for 20 seconds or soak it for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Do not use soap or detergent, because they are not food safe and can be absorbed by fruits and vegetables.
- The FDA recommends scrubbing firm produce with a clean produce brush.
- Soaking produce in water with about a teaspoon of baking soda per cup can help remove some pesticides.
- Organic produce should be washed too, to remove dirt and germs.
Sources: Scientific American, National Geographic
Questions kids ask
Why wash a banana or orange I will peel?
Your hands touch the peel, so germs on it can get onto the fruit you eat.