Wash Your Hands
Before handling fruit, make sure your hands are clean to avoid transferring any bacteria or dirt to the fruit’s surface.
Rinse Under Cold Water
Rinse the fruit under cold running water. Rub the fruit gently with your fingers or a vegetable brush to help remove any dirt, pesticides, or wax that may be present on the surface. Some fruits, like berries, should be rinsed carefully to avoid damaging them.
Use Vinegar Solution
For fruits with thicker skins like apples, oranges, or grapes, you can create a solution of water and vinegar (about 1 part vinegar to 3 parts water). Soak the fruit in this solution for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly with cold water. Vinegar helps to remove bacteria and any residual pesticides.
Peeling
For fruits with skins that are easily removed, like bananas or oranges, you can simply peel them before consuming to eliminate any surface contaminants.
Drying
After washing, gently pat the fruit dry with a clean cloth or paper towel. This can help remove any remaining water or bacteria on the surface.
Avoid Using Soap or Detergent
It’s generally not recommended to use soap or detergent to wash fruits, as they can leave behind residues that are not safe for consumption.
Organic Produce
If you’re using organic fruits, you might still want to wash them to remove any dirt or debris, but they typically have fewer pesticide residues compared to conventionally grown produce.