How To Wash Your Produce and Remove Pesticides

Photo by Dan4th

I have a confession to make. I don't always buy organic produce. In fact I usually don't.

It's not because I think organic isn't worth it. I love organic. I really really want to buy organic.

We can't afford it right now.

So in order to try and reduce our family's pesticide exposure I always wash the produce very well. Studies show that you can reduce pesticide residue by up to 90% by washing the produce. Of course you will not be able to get rid of all the pesticides. Organic is the only way to be completely pesticide free

Washing also cleanses your food of waxes and bacteria. Think about how many hands come into contact with your fruits and vegetable before they get to you!

Unfortunately a quick rinse in the sink won't due. Pesticides are made to withstand the rain so your going to need more than just plain water to break them down.

You can try the many produce washes sold at the grocery store. But it's easy to make one yourself from ingredients you probably already have on hand.

This is the one I use from Dr. Oz

Produce Wash

1 cup water
1 cup distilled white vinegar
1 tbsp baking soda
1/2 of a lemon

Combine all the ingredients together in a large bowl. The baking soda and vinegar will react when you mix them together so make sure there is plenty of room in your bowl for the resulting foam. Transfer mixture to a spray bottle.

To use spray on produce and let sit for 5 minutes. Scrub for at least 30 seconds. Use a veggie scrub brush if the produce can withstand it. Rinse in running water.

For very delicate foods like berries you can skip the scrubbing. Just rinse in a colander after the solution has set for 5 minutes.

To avoid early spoilage wash produce just before use.

You may also like:

10 Ways To Reduce Your Primal Grocery Bill

How To Make Chicken Broth

Finding Time To Cook Real Food



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