Fruits and vegetables may look perfectly clean, but that doesn't mean they're actually free of pesticide residue and bacteria. Washing fruits and vegetables is one of the most underrated, yet misunderstood, kitchen habits.
Fruits and vegetables are considered the basis healthy diet, and at the same time, they are also the foods that come into contact with the most external influences. From production and spraying to transportation, storage and handling in stores – the path to the plate is long.
That's why washing Washing fruits and vegetables is not just a formality, but a sensible step that can reduce certain risks. However, it is important to understand what washing can actually achieve – and what it cannot.
What do we actually remove from fruits and vegetables when we wash them?
On the surface of fruits and vegetables, retained by soil residues, dust, microorganisms and some pesticides. Most of these substances remain on the outer layer, which means that they can be at least partially removed.
At the same time, it is worth emphasizing that washing fruits and vegetables cannot completely remove of all pesticides, especially those that penetrate the interior of the food. Washing is therefore not a complete protection, but rather a reduction in exposure.
Liquid water as a base
The most proven and simplest way to wash fruits and vegetables is to rinse them. under running drinking water.
Mechanical removal of dirt Rubbing your hands or a soft brush on harder fruits has been proven to reduce the amount of impurities.
Soaking in standing water Without rinsing, it does not have the same effect, as the removed substances remain in the water and can re-adhere to the surface.
Baking soda: what it can and can't do
Baking soda is often mentioned as an extra step when washing fruits and vegetables. Research shows that a mild baking soda solution can reduces the amount of some pesticides on the surface of the fruit.
However, it is important to understand the limitations, it does not disinfect or remove all types of residue. It is useful as a supplement, not as a substitute for thorough rinsing with clean water.
Vinegar and lemon: a common myth
Vinegar and lemon juice are often presented as a universal solution, but their effect is not as often assumed. The acid can reduces the amount of certain bacteria, but it has not been proven to have a major effect on pesticides.
Furthermore, prolonged soaking can affect the taste, texture and shelf life of foods. Therefore, their use is not necessary and does not represent a significant advantage over proper rinsing with water.
The importance of sequence
Effectively washing fruits and vegetables is not a matter of taking as many steps as possible, but rather correct sequence. First remove visible dirt, if necessary a short additional process, then rinse thoroughly with running water. It is equally important that food is washed separately, in a clean container, and immediately before use, not several days in advance.
Washing as part of a sensible attitude towards food
Washing fruit and vegetables is not a magic bullet, but it is a sensible part of everyday food hygiene. Its purpose is not to create the illusion of complete safety, but reduce exposure where possible. Understanding limitation is just as important as their correct use.
