In our quest for healthier eating habits, incorporating more fruits and vegetables into our diets is a common goal. However, the produce, despite its fresh appearance can pick unwanted dirt, bacteria and pesticides on its journey from the farm to the table. Properly cleaning fruits and vegetables is a crucial step in food preparation that is often overlooked or done incorrectly.
Using a dedicated fruit and vegetable wash provides an extra layer of protection for you and your family. As a mother, influencer, and advocate for healthy living, Komal Verma, shares, “As a mom, I’m always looking for ways to make healthy choices by serving fresh and healthiest produce to my family. Washing our vegetables and fruits with a dedicated wash like ITC Nimwash, which is Infused with the goodness of neem and citrus extracts gives me peace of mind, knowing it delivers a 100% natural action* against pesticides and eliminates 99.9% germs^. It is amazing how something so simple can bring so much peace of mind when it comes to our family’s well-being.”
Here is a comprehensive guide to properly washing diverse types of fruits and vegetables:
Before you begin, always remember to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water and discard any bruised or damaged produce.
1. Leafy Greens: Soak lettuce, spinach, and kale in cold water for a few minutes, then rinse under running water. Dry thoroughly using a salad spinner or clean towels to prevent spoilage.
2. Firm Fruits and Vegetables: To properly wash fruits and vegetables such as apples, cucumbers, bell peppers, etc. apply a small amount of fruits and vegetables wash directly onto the surface. Using clean hands, gently rub the wash over the entire surface, ensuring all areas are thoroughly cleansed. Finally, rinse the fruits and vegetables thoroughly under cool running water to remove any lingering traces of the invisible residues.
3. Delicate Fruits: When washing delicate fruits like grapes, berries, or tomatoes, it is important to be gentle. Start by preparing a diluted solution of the fruit and vegetable wash in a clean container filled with cool water. Gently submerge the fruits in the diluted solution for a few seconds, avoiding any harsh scrubbing. Finally, rinse the fruits thoroughly under cool running water to ensure they are completely clean and ready to enjoy.
4. Broccoli and Cauliflower: Soak these vegetables in salt water for 5-10 minutes to remove any insects. The vegetable cleaner helps dislodge and kill any small pests hiding in the florets. Rinse thoroughly under cool water to remove any remaining debris. Pay special attention to the tight spaces between florets where dirt can accumulate.
General Tips:
•Always wash produce before eating, even if you plan to peel it
•Use cold water; hot water can allow bacteria to enter the flesh
While picking up your produce opt for locally sourced produce whenever possible, as that ensures shorter transport time reducing the risk of contamination and preserves the quality. To further ensure cleanliness of your produce, remember to wash them before peeling to avoid transferring contaminants to edible parts. Use a separate brush to scrub the surface and pat them dry with a clean paper towel to minimize bacterial growth.
By incorporating a dedicated fruit and vegetable wash, like ITC Nimwash, into your food preparation routine, you can enhance the safety and quality of your fresh produce, allowing you to enjoy the full flavour and nutritional benefits with added confidence of being free from illness.