Why it's Important to Wash Produce before Consuming
Have you been told to wash your fruits or vegetables before eating them or maybe you’ve told others to do so?
We have all seen shoppers doing a taste test as they purchase their produce, especially grapes, strawberries, and blueberries and I often wondered whether anyone ever told them that produce should be washed before consuming.
The reason for washing your produce before enjoying them is primarily because of the pesticide residue that is on most fruits and vegetables. Many studies have been done confirming that washing produce is essential before consuming.
In today’s world, most foods contain some form of pesticide, even organic produce may contain some pesticide residues.
Therefore, washing produce is important to prevent foodborne illness and reduce your exposure to pesticides.
Although organic produce may contain some pesticide residues, they are still the best option to minimize your pesticide exposure unless you have your own homegrown garden.
Whether you buy conventional or organic produce, washing before consuming is important.
Risks of Pesticide Exposure
According to the EPA, many different types of pesticides are used to control pests and other disease carriers, such as mosquitoes, ticks, rats, and mice. They are also used to control weeds, insect infestations, and diseases.
There are many risks associated with being exposed to these pesticides. Several studies have linked pesticide exposure to many chronic diseases, including:
Cancer and diabetes
Neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and ALS
Birth defects and reproductive disorders
Asthma, COPD, and more
There are more extreme cases of agricultural workers who are exposed to pesticides on the job. This contributes to why the average migrant farm worker in the US is reported to live only to the age of 49.
How to Wash Produce
Many people wash their produce by rinsing it under cold, running water. This removes some of the pesticide residues from some produce but not all.
According to studies at the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station found that washing produce with running water reduced the amount of pesticide residue for 9 of the 12 tested pesticides. Other studies have shown that most produce cleaners are no more effective than plain water.
A few cost-effective ways to wash your produce include a water solution of salt, baking soda, or vinegar. You can use them separately or combine them. Research suggests that baking soda solution yields the most effective in removing most pesticide residues.
The portion of salt, baking soda, and vinegar will vary based on the amount of water and produce you are washing. To start use about a teaspoon of baking soda or salt and about an ounce or less of vinegar in a bowl of water. Soak produce for about 15-20 minutes.
Source: Food Revolution Network
In Good Health,
Deon
DISCLAIMER: This information is not intended to provide medical advice. The purpose is to provide education and a broader understanding to my readers. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider before making any dietary or lifestyle changes. I do not recommend or prescribe, or recommend changing dosage or discontinuing, any prescription medications or pharmaceutical drugs.
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CONNECT WITH ME
Instagram://https://www.instagram.com/balancebeyond40/
Website: https://www.deonhall.com/
Email: Deon@deonhall.com
If you are struggling with weight gain, lack of energy, hot flashes, cravings, etc. I have a few spots available over the next 2 weeks for a FREE 30-minute Breakthrough Strategy call.
