
Rinse to Reduce: Expert tips for washing summer berries and pesticides
CNN Underscored warns that summer berries (blackberries, strawberries, blueberries and raspberries) can carry pesticide residues. While surface pesticides can be reduced with a baking-soda or vinegar soak (berries 1–2 minutes; most produce 5–10 minutes), systemic pesticides absorbed into the fruit aren’t washed off, so choosing organic or US‑grown berries lowers risk. The article also notes common pesticides by berry, suggests rinsing with cool water and drying thoroughly after washing, and advises washing berries right before eating (hulling strawberries after washing) and washing before peeling. Raspberries tend to have lower residues, but overall organic options offer the best protection against long-term exposure.











