When it comes to cooking, proper hygiene is extremely important, and it is also important to know when washing food before preparation is necessary and when it is even undesirable. In this article, we reveal five foods that should never be washed before use, and five that should always be thoroughly cleaned.
Understanding when washing food is necessary and sometimes even harmful, is critical to ensuring the safety and quality of your meals. By following these simple rules, you can reduce the risk of spreading bacteria in your kitchen and ensure that your meals are safe and delicious. Whether you're preparing a quick dinner or hosting a special occasion dinner, proper food preparation is the foundation of great culinary experience.
Foods you should never wash
eggs, that you buy have already been washed and treated with a special process that prevents contamination with bacteria such as salmonella. Additional washing can damage the protective layer on the shell and increase the possibility of bacteria entering the egg. Washing raw chicken can lead to the spread of bacteria on kitchen surfaces and other foods. It is safer to cook the chicken thoroughly, which destroys any dangerous microorganisms. As with chicken, washing other types of raw meat is not recommended. Washing meat in the kitchen can cause bacteria like E. coli and salmonella to spread around. Washing pasta it is not necessary before cooking and can remove the starch that helps the sauce adhere to the pasta. Pasta should be cooked directly from the package in boiling water. Mushrooms they are like sponges; they absorb water, which means their texture may deteriorate if washed before cooking. It is better to clean them with a brush or a dry brush.
Do not rinse meat under water. Photo: Fabio/PexelsFoods you should always wash
Apples, cucumbers and other fruits and vegetables with edible skin must be thoroughly washed before consumption to remove pesticides and other impurities. Before opening canned food it is recommended to wash the top of the can, as dust and bacteria can accumulate on the surface, which can contaminate the food.
Always wash fruits and vegetables. Photo: Any/PexelsEven with foods such as melons and citrus fruits, it is important to wash the skin, as the knife can transfer impurities from the skin to the inside of the fruit during cutting. Nuts they may contain residues of soil and other impurities, so they should be washed before consumption, especially if you will use them in recipes where they are not baked or roasted. Although it is Dried Fruits often processed for longer storage, it must be washed before consumption to remove any remaining preservatives or other additives.
