The cleanliness of our food is important to your health, especially today, as we know how often fruits contain common pesticides. There are many different consumer-facing products that promise to bust these contaminants, but we looked for an easier solution. Whether you picked up a haul of berries in bulk at the farmers market or are making a healthy salad, take a moment to clean your food. Want to try it at home? Practice good food hygiene. Learn how to use baking soda as an effective fruit wash that'll clean your fresh produce, ensuring it's safe to use and eat.
Why is fruit so dirty?
Fresh fruits, whether from the grocery store or farm markets, are often treated with pesticides and other contaminants. Lots of fruits and vegetables, including those in the below list, receive extra treatments while growing and before transportation to ward off insects. After all, grocery stores have perpetuated the expectation that all fruit must be "good looking" to be worth the price. Even though washing fruit might be your go-to practice, it may not be enough to sufficiently remove all residues.
Fruit You'll Find in the 'Dirty Dozen'
You absolutely need to wash these items before eating. They can all have higher levels of pesticide residue:
- Apples
- Strawberries
- Grapes
- Peaches
- Nectarines
- Cherries
- Pears
- Tomatoes
- Celery
- Potatoes
- Sweet Bell Peppers
- Spinach and kale (other leafy greens, too!)
Using Baking Soda to Clean Fruit
Using a baking soda cleaning solution to clean fruit is a natural and cost-effective method that helps remove pesticides and contaminants effectively. Its mild abrasive properties, coupled with its ability to neutralize acids and odors, make it a safe and efficient choice.
You'll Need
- Baking soda
- Clean, cold water
- A clean produce brush or cloth
- Dry towels
5 Simple Steps for Cleaning Pesticide Residues
- Mix a cleaning solution of 1 part baking soda to 3 parts water in a bowl.
- Submerge the items in the solution or gently rub the mixture onto their surfaces using a produce brush or cloth.
- Let them sit for a few minutes.
- Rinse everything thoroughly in the kitchen sink under running clean, cool water.
- Pat dry with a clean cloth or paper towel.
This simple solution is mildly abrasive in nature so it will clean the surface of fruits, including berries without damage. It also has the ability to neutralize acids and eliminate odors, making it a versatile and safe tool for cleaning various types of fruits.
FAQs
Are essential oils safe for cleaning fruit?
While high-quality essential oils are natural and some possess antimicrobial properties, it's not recommended to use them as a fruit disinfectant. Adulterated or cheap essential oils can be toxic if ingested, and residual oil on produce might not be safe for consumption.
Can you use baking soda to wash salad greens?
Yes, you can use baking soda to wash salad greens. Follow the same steps outlined, ensuring you rinse the greens thoroughly to remove any baking soda residue.
Are store-bought fruit and vegetable cleaners good?
Produce cleaners can be effective in removing residue, but their ingredients vary. Some may contain chemicals that you want to avoid. It's essential to read labels and choose cleaners made from certified natural ingredients if possible. These are three reputable cleaners you can buy in stores or online:
- Veggie Wash Natural Fruit & Vegetable Wash
- Earth Friendly Products Fruit & Vegetable Wash
- Fit Organic Fruit & Vegetable Wash
Cleaning produce with baking soda is a simple and effective way to remove leftover pesticide residue, ensuring that your food is clean and safe to eat. Incorporate this easy method into your routine to enjoy healthier produce.
