Baking Soda for Fruits? Experts Warn of Risks, Recommend Best Washing Methods

• Washing fruits and vegetables is crucial due to pesticide residues and chemicals from cultivation.
• A study in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry suggests baking soda is more effective than water for removing chemicals, dust, dirt, and microorganisms.
• Amy Johnston, a Food Safety Professor, warns of 'thermal shock' risk when soaking fruits, where bacteria can enter if water temperature differs greatly from fruit's.
• Correct method: 1 tbsp baking soda per gallon of water, dip briefly, then rinse thoroughly under cold running water; avoid long soaking.
• Baking soda helps loosen dirt but does not kill bacteria; for most fruits, thorough washing under cold running water is the most effective method.