4 simple tips to wash vegetables and fruits more safely

According to The Healthy, any fruit or Vegetables Any fresh produce will come into contact with natural microorganisms in the soil and environment. These bacteria will attach to the produce when it is picked and they can grow and multiply during transportation.

Some of these bacteria, such as species of E. coli, Salmonella, and Listeria, can affect your health:

– E. Coli can cause diarrhea.

– Salmonella can cause stomach problems; or in some cases a high fever can be life-threatening.

Listeria affects the gastrointestinal tract but can also spread to the bloodstream or brain.

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), viruses such as hepatitis A and norovirus are also common (but mild) causes of foodborne illness.

Here are simple tips for washing vegetables and fruits more safely:

Wash fruit before eating to ensure food hygiene and safety.Feverpitched/Getty Images

Wash vegetables and fruits under running water

The FDA advises that you simply use running water to wash fruits and vegetables, and rub the produce to remove bacteria and pesticide residue.

To be on the safer side, you can use a soft bristle brush to scrub harder foods like melons or cucumbers.

Soak in water for at least 2 minutes

Research published in the Journal of Food Protection says that in most cases, soaking produce for at least two minutes before rinsing can help reduce harmful bacteria.

Soak in vinegar

Some studies show that adding a little vinegar to the soak is better at preventing food poisoning than just water.

You can mix a mixture of about 1 cup of vinegar water mixed with 2 cups of clean water, soak for about 10 minutes and then rinse with water.

Soak baking soda

Research published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry states that the alkaline pH of baking soda helps break down stubborn pesticide residues.

You can mix a teaspoon of baking soda with 2 cups of water, then soak the fruits and vegetables for 15 minutes, then rinse with clean water.

The FDA and CDC say that in most cases, rinsing fruit thoroughly under running water is effective in limiting the risk of bacteria and pesticides.

To be on the safer side, especially if you’re preparing food for children, the elderly, pregnant women, or others with compromised immune systems, adding vinegar or baking soda to the soaking water helps. the best.

According to the Law of Ho Chi Minh City