Cleaning fruit is an essential step in ensuring the freshness and taste of your produce and your health. With increasing concerns about pesticides, bacteria, and contaminants, knowing how to wash and prepare your fruits properly can make a significant difference. Whether you’re preparing a vibrant fruit salad or simply enjoying a piece of fruit on the go, these simple tips will ensure your fruits are clean and ready to eat. Here’s how to clean your fruit.
General Steps for Cleaning Fruit
Wash Your Hands
Rinse with Water
Fruits with Skin (like apples, pears, and oranges)
Rinse under cold running water. If needed, use a soft brush to scrub the surface.
Berries (like strawberries and blueberries)
Place them in a colander and rinse gently under cold water. Avoid soaking them, as this can make them mushy.
Melons and Cantaloupes
Rinse the outside thoroughly with cold water and scrub with a brush to remove dirt before cutting.
Use Products Like Arm&Hammer Fruit And Vegetable Wash (optional)
Made using Arm & Hammer baking soda, Arm&Hammer Fruit and Vegetable Wash safely eliminates more than 90 percent of pesticide residue while also washing away wax and soil with just a spray and rinse. It uses pure and simple ingredients—including baking soda, lemon oil, and salt—and is scientifically proven to clean 4x better than water alone. It’s free from harsh chemicals, leaves no odor or taste behind, is vegan-friendly, gluten-free, and so easy to use!
Use a Vinegar Solution (Optional):
For extra cleaning, especially if you’re concerned about pesticides:
- Mix one part vinegar to three parts water.
- Soak the fruit for about 5-10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly under cold water. This is especially useful for leafy greens and berries.
Dry the Fruit
After washing, dry the fruit with a clean cloth or paper towel. This can help remove any remaining bacteria.
Peel If Necessary
You may want to peel fruits like peaches or plums after washing them, especially if you’re concerned about pesticides.
Other Tips
- Avoid using soap or bleach, as these can leave harmful residues on the fruit.
- A simple rinse is often sufficient for organic fruits, but it’s still good to wash them to remove contaminants.
- Always clean fruits before cutting them to prevent bacteria from spreading from the skin to the flesh.
Taking the time to clean your fruit correctly is crucial to enjoying fresh, delicious, and safe produce. Following the simple steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively remove dirt, pesticides, and bacteria, ensuring that every bite is healthy and enjoyable. Remember, the methods may vary depending on the type of fruit, but the importance of cleanliness remains the same. So, the next time you reach for that juicy apple or succulent strawberry, you’ll feel confident knowing you’ve done your part to keep your fruit clean and safe. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and nutritional benefits of your favorite fruits with peace of mind!