Tuesday Tidbit: Do You Need A Produce Wash?

You’ve seen them at the market, right?  Touted as being a great way to rid your produce of pesticide residue, dirt & bacteria ?  But they cost money.  Are they worth it?  Turns out, probably not.

Tennessee State University scientists compared a produce wash, dilute vinegar and plain water and found that water removes 98% of bacteria from the surface of fruits and vegetables.  Cook’s Illustrated magazine conducted a similar test and found that a light mist of a 25% vinegar solution, followed by washing in plain water did the trick. 

So save your pennies, people!

But hey, while we’re on the subject, here’s a great little piece from NPR on how and why to wash your fruits and veggies . . . .

© 2010, Sarah. All rights reserved.

Print This!