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Produce Washing

All articles tagged with #produce washing

Cyclospora concerns push shoppers toward cooked or locally sourced greens
health6 days ago

Cyclospora concerns push shoppers toward cooked or locally sourced greens

A rising cyclosporiasis outbreak linked to leafy greens prompts safety guidance for handling produce at home and when dining out. With cases across many states and no single source identified, officials advise thorough washing, using a produce brush for firm items, and cooking produce to at least 158°F. Consider produce with peels, or locally grown/hydroponic greens, and ask restaurants about sourcing. High-risk individuals should favor cooked vegetables; most people recover with treatment, though symptoms can last days to weeks.

UBC develops starch-based wash to remove pesticides and extend fruit freshness
technology3 months ago

UBC develops starch-based wash to remove pesticides and extend fruit freshness

UBC researchers have developed a natural, biodegradable wash made from starch-based particles capped with iron and tannic acid that can remove about 86–94% of surface pesticide residues from apples, and a light edible coating formed after washing that slows browning and moisture loss, keeping grapes fresh for up to 15 days at room temperature; the method could cost roughly three cents per apple for industrial use, with home-use versions and broader testing still to come and regulatory review required.

The Free Solution to Removing Pesticides from Produce
health-and-wellness2 years ago

The Free Solution to Removing Pesticides from Produce

Experts recommend using plain running tap water as the most effective and safest method to remove germs and pesticides from fruits and vegetables. Soap, detergent, and commercial produce washes are not recommended as they can be absorbed by the produce and lead to illness. Soaking produce is discouraged as it can spread contamination. Thoroughly clean produce with crevices, rough surfaces, and leaves by rinsing under cool running water, using a produce brush if necessary. It is important to wash thick-rinded produce even if the skin is not consumed. Organic produce is the best way to avoid pesticides, as it is treated with naturally occurring or plant-based pesticides.