How to wash vegetables correctly?

How to wash vegetables

Vegetables are a fundamental part of a healthy diet: here is a short guide to washing them carefully before using them in the kitchen.

Solid basis of a healthy diet, vegetables are the indispensable element of our table: experts recommend 300 or 400 g per day and the variety is a must because it is rich in different nutritional virtues depending on its nature, color and appearance. How to wash vegetables? Below are some useful tips for consuming these foods in the best possible way and with peace of mind.

How to wash vegetables?

What can hide behind a lettuce leaf or on the skin of a pepper? The most common enemies are impurities, bacteria and above all pesticides. Where possible, an excellent choice could be to purchase organic fruit and vegetables, which would minimize the use of chemicals such as herbicides and pesticides, but in some cases it may not be enough. Here’s how to wash it correctly.

Wash your hands

First of all, even before washing the product, you must carefully wash your hands, the work surface and the tools you will use: this will avoid the proliferation of bacteria.

Consume fresh vegetables

It would be a good idea to direct your purchasing choices towards seasonal, local foods and foods of certified origin and consume them within 5 days of purchase.

When to wash vegetables

Wash vegetables only before consuming them, never make the mistake of washing them and placing them in the fridge because this speeds up the decomposition process.

Which water to use

Use running water for washing: cold or lukewarm depending on the consistency of the food, using a few kitchen brushes if necessary as in the case of potatoes and carrots.

How to fight bacteria

Always eliminate spoiled or damaged parts of fruit and vegetables where bacteria can nest. Some studies state that the highest concentration of pesticides is on apples (98%) and tomatoes, followed by lettuce, potatoes and vegetables with thin skin. It is well known that important vitamins are contained in the peel: for this reason it would be preferable to buy organic vegetables and remember that some bleach-based solutions can cause the loss of vitamins and other important elements of the food.

How to wash hard vegetables

For vegetables with a hard consistency, such as tomatoes, often the ones richest in pesticides, it is advisable to rinse under running water and rub well with your hands; the same goes for vegetables that you eat entirely, such as cauliflower or broccoli.

How to wash soft vegetables

For soft vegetables, however, wash under running water, being careful not to ruin them: sometimes the use of a hand shower can be useful.

How to wash soiled vegetables

For those foods that have soil residues such as potatoes, carrots or mushrooms, it is better to use kitchen brushes and if you want to eat peeled ones; However, wash the peel before slicing.

How to wash leafy greens

Finally, for leafy vegetables (chard, spinach, lettuce, etc.), once the stems and roots have been removed, it would be a good idea to immerse them in a bowl full of cold water, swirl them and then dry them with absorbent paper or drain them in the sink.

Disinfectants for vegetables

Having followed these precautions, all that remains is to indicate possible natural disinfectants considered very effective.

Sodium bicarbonate

Sodium bicarbonate is a great ally in the kitchen, its use has always been recommended by grandmothers all over Italy. Scientific research shows that bicarbonate is capable of eliminating pathogens, such as the dangerous bacteria Escherichia coli and Salmonella. To disinfect vegetables, this is the most used remedy: after washing under running water, dissolve a teaspoon for each liter of water and leave the food to soak for 10-15 minutes, rinsing thoroughly.

White vinegar and water

Another natural disinfectant useful in the kitchen is vinegar which allows you to eliminate bacteria and some pesticides present on food. The use is simple: 50% vinegar and 50% water, a solution in which, after washing, the vegetables should be left to soak for approximately 10-15 minutes which, after vigorous stirring, will be rinsed thoroughly.

Apple cider vinegar

The recipe is quickly explained: 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar, a large handful of salt to dissolve well in a bowl or in the sink, mixing in the water with your hands. Rinse the vegetables vigorously, leave to soak for a few minutes and rinse. Vinegar has always been an excellent biological ally for eliminating mold, waste and bacteria.

How to wash fruits and vegetables for toxoplasmosis?

Toxoplasmosis is a disease caused by a parasite called Toxoplasma gondii. This parasite can be present in soil contaminated with feces from infected cats and can be transmitted to humans through contact with contaminated soil or through consumption of raw or undercooked meat, as well as inadequately washed fruits and vegetables. To reduce the risk of contracting toxoplasmosis from vegetables, you can follow these steps to wash and prepare vegetables safely. First you need to start with hand washing, before you start preparing the vegetables, make sure you wash your hands thoroughly with warm water and soap. You can then move on to washing the vegetables first with running water: passing the vegetables under running water to remove the soil and using a soft brush. where possible, to rub the surface of the vegetable, especially if it has a thick or irregular skin. Then you can proceed with a solution of water and bicarbonate as specified above.

Abbas Jahangir

I am a researcher and writer with a background in food and nutritional science. I am the founder of Foodstrend.com, our reputable online platform offering scientifically-backed articles on health, food, nutrition, kitchen tips, recipes, diet, and fitness. With a commitment to providing accurate and reliable information, we strive to empower our readers to make informed decisions about their health and lifestyle choices. Join us on Foodstrend.com's journey toward a healthier and happier lifestyle.

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