DIY Produce Wash

Do we really need to wash our produce? Yes, we do. Fruits and vegetables may be natural foods, but along with their nutrients, they can also come with insects, bacteria, and even pesticides that were collected as they grew. Fruit and vegetable washes can be purchased pre-made at the store, but they also come with a long list of ingredients that aren’t always recognizable. Fortunately, you can make a DIY produce wash that only uses three ingredients to remove contaminants: 

1. Vinegar’s high acidity makes it a strong cleaning agent that can wash away mineral deposits, dirt, and grease. White vinegar that is 4-7% acetic acid is safe to consume, but be careful not to exceed this concentration when making your wash. 

2. Cold water can close the pores of produce, blocking any microorganisms from entering from the stem or blossom end. Pre- and post-rinsing the produce under running cold water can help loosen and remove existing contaminants. 

3. Baking soda is a base substance that creates a chemical reaction when combined with an acid like vinegar. While this reaction makes for a fun school project, it also helps break down the contaminants present on produce. 

With these ingredients, a vegetable brush, and a bowl, you’ll have everything you need for washing fruits and veggies at home! 

Note: This DIY produce wash can remove many contaminants, but is not 100% effective against everything. If you want to be extra careful, consider peeling off the outer layer of your produce to eliminate surface contaminants. Although rare, contaminants can also get inside produce, so always check for punctures or breaks and inspect the inside to ensure it’s in good condition. 

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