Beyond Water: The Right Way to Clean Fruits & Vegetables from Chemicals & Germs

• Washing fruits and vegetables with plain water is often insufficient to remove pesticides, chemicals, and germs.
• Chemicals are sprayed on produce for freshness and during cultivation, posing health risks, especially for vulnerable groups.
• A vinegar-water solution (1 part vinegar, 3-4 parts water) can effectively clean produce after an initial plain water rinse; soak for 15 minutes.
• Alternatively, a baking soda solution (1 tsp baking soda in 2-3 cups water) can loosen pesticides; soak for 15 minutes.
• Different produce types require specific cleaning: leafy greens need soaking, peeled fruits gentle rubbing, soft fruits quick washing, and thick-skinned items scrubbing.