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Fruits are a vital component of a healthy diet which provides essential nutrients, fibre and antioxidants. They are packed with vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals that help protect against chronic diseases. However, a major concern associated with fruit consumption is the presence of pesticides. These toxic chemicals can have detrimental effects on human health including neurological damage, reproductive issues and increased cancer risk. The primary reason fruits retain pesticides is inadequate or improper washing. Failure to properly rinse fruits can lead to the ingestion of these harmful substances. Thus, it becomes crucial to thoroughly wash the fruits before consumption.

How To Wash Fruits?

Dr. Tim Tiutan, an American Internal Medicine physician on an Instagram post shared a simple method to remove pesticides and microorganisms from fruits. He starts by rinsing the fruits with water, followed by soaking them in a mixture of 1 cup vinegar and 3 cups water for 10 minutes. Next, he adds baking soda and lets it soak for a few more minutes. Finally, he rinses the fruits with water, dries them and stores them in the refrigerator to ensure clean and safe consumption.

Simple Way To Wash Fruits

Sanitise Your Hands First

Sanitising your hands before handling fruits is crucial to prevent the transfer of bacteria and other microorganisms.

Wash Under Tap Water or Cold Water

Rinse all fruits under running tap water or cold water to remove any visible dirt, wax or bacteria. This initial rinse helps loosen any surface contaminants, making the cleaning process more effective.

Wash Them Thoroughly

Thoroughly wash each fruit, paying attention to crevices, grooves and stems where dirt and bacteria often accumulate. Use gentle circular motions to scrub the skin, ensuring all surfaces are clean.

Add a Teaspoon Of Baking Soda

Mix one teaspoon of baking soda with water to create a DIY cleaning solution. The baking soda helps neutralise acidic residues, break down wax coatings and eliminate bacteria, leaving your fruits clean and sanitised.

how to wash fruits

How to wash fruits properly (Image Credits: Canva)

Use A Brush Or Sponge If Necessary

For fruits with intricate surfaces such as strawberries or grapes, use a soft-bristled brush or sponge to gently scrub away dirt and bacteria.

Dry Them Properly

Lastly, pat dry the fruits with a clean towel to remove remaining moisture. This helps prevent bacterial growth and keeps the fruits fresh for a longer period.

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