6 Fruits and Vegetables You Should Always Wash Before Eating
When it comes to fruits and vegetables, we sometimes skip a good wash, thinking it’s unnecessary. However, to protect our health, washing is essential, especially for items like homegrown herbs, melons, iceberg lettuce, mushrooms, cabbage, and kiwi.
Although washing every piece of produce may seem tedious, skipping this step can expose you to hidden bacteria and harmful contaminants.
Let’s dive into why these six commonly neglected produce items require washing before use.
Why You Need to Wash Your Produce
Whether you’re slicing into a juicy melon or chopping up lettuce for a salad, there’s a chance of transferring bacteria from the skin or outer leaves onto the edible portions.
Fruits and vegetables grow in soil, are exposed to pests, and, in some cases, receive chemical treatments that could linger on their surfaces. A quick rinse can help reduce the risk of introducing bacteria into your meal.
1. Homegrown Herbs: Fresh but Not Pristine
Many of us enjoy using herbs from the garden or windowsill. However, these homegrown herbs like basil, parsley, rosemary, and thyme can carry dirt, dust, and even tiny insects.
As much as we’d like to assume they’re clean, they require a quick rinse before adding them to a dish.
How to Wash Herbs Properly
- Gently rinse a handful of herbs under cool running water.
- Shake off excess water.
- Pat dry with a paper towel or use a salad spinner for faster drying.
2. Melon: Clean the Rind to Avoid Contamination
Melons like cantaloupes and watermelons grow on the ground, exposing them to soil and potential bacterial buildup.
Their thick rind may seem like a natural barrier, but cutting into an unwashed melon can introduce bacteria from the outer surface to the inside flesh.
Steps to Wash Melons
- Rinse under cool running water without soap or produce washes.
- Use a clean brush to scrub the surface gently.
- Pat dry with a towel before slicing.
3. Iceberg Lettuce: Even Leafy Greens Need a Wash
Iceberg lettuce is typically eaten raw, making washing it before consumption essential. Unlike heartier greens, it doesn’t always get a thorough wash because its layered structure gives the illusion of cleanliness.
How to Clean Iceberg Lettuce
- For a Salad: Separate the leaves, rinse each under cold water, then spin or pat dry.
- For Wedges: Rinse the whole head under water, pat dry, and remove wilted leaves before slicing.
4. Mushrooms: Yes, You Should Wash Them
Contrary to the myth, mushrooms don’t absorb a lot of water because they’re already about 90% water. Leaving mushrooms unwashed can result in soil and debris making it into your meals.
Quick Mushroom Cleaning Technique
- Submerge mushrooms in a bowl of water.
- Swirl gently to loosen dirt.
- Place on a clean towel and pat dry.
5. Cabbage: Dirt and Pests Can Linger Between Leaves
People often discard cabbage’s outer leaves and assume it’s clean. However, hidden pests or soil can be trapped in the layers, so it’s best to give cabbage a rinse before using it in recipes.
How to Clean Cabbage
- Remove thick outer leaves.
- Slice into wedges and place in a colander.
- Rinse thoroughly under cool water, then pat dry with a towel.
6. Kiwi: Fuzzy Skin Can Hold Dirt
Eating kiwi with the skin on is beneficial for its fibre and nutrients, but the fuzzy skin can trap dirt. Cleaning kiwi is especially important if you plan to eat it with the skin.
Steps to Wash Kiwi
- Rinse under cool running water.
- Use a clean towel to gently scrub, removing any residual dirt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to use soap to wash produce?
No, soap isn’t recommended. Stick to cool water and a produce brush for the best results.
Why do some fruits and vegetables require brushing?
Items with rough skins or grooves, like melons, benefit from brushing as it helps remove trapped bacteria and dirt.
Can washing with water alone remove pesticides?
While washing reduces surface residue, a vinegar solution can be used for additional cleaning if desired.
Is it necessary to wash pre-washed lettuce or herbs?
Not usually, as they are pre-washed. However, you may choose to give them an extra rinse if desired.
Does washing mushrooms affect their texture?
No, quick washing doesn’t harm them. Ensure they’re dried afterward to maintain firmness.
References
FoodSafety.gov
USDA.gov
CDC – Food Safety
Produce for Better Health
NIH – Washing Produce