How To Wash And Care For Fruits And Vegetables
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Sensational Skillet Eggplant and Tofu
Crisp Chinese Greens Salad
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According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, all fresh produce should be washed to remove dirt and any harmful bacteria or viruses, which may have contaminated the vegetables. This is especially important if a member of the household suffers a chronic health condition that weakens the immune system. Very young children whose immune systems are not yet fully developed are also more at risk for suffering illnesses caused by pathogens that can infect produce.
Common food borne illnesses include Salmonella, E. coli, and Hepatitis A. Onset of symptoms usually occurs within 12 to 72 hours after eating contaminated food. Leafy vegetables like cabbage, lettuce, and spinach, which grow close to the ground pose a particular risk as they can become contaminated by bacteria that live in the soil, usually close to the plant’s roots.
Bagged produce should also be washed, especially if it has been precut. The same applies to organically grown vegetables. Remove the outer leaves from lettuce and cabbage before washing. Thoroughly rinse produce under clean running water to remove any dirt, pesticides or bacteria. Do not soak produce in water or wash with soap or detergent. Rub with your hands if necessary. If you do not use the produce immediately after washing, dry it off before storing in it the refrigerator, as moisture encourages the growth of mold and bacteria.
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Sensational Skillet Eggplant and Tofu
Crisp Chinese Greens Salad
