Conserve Nutrients While Washing Fruits & Veggies
September 4, 2009
First of all, it is of utmost significance to maintain maximum level of hygiene on kitchen countertops, fridge, cooking range and utensils to confine growth of any sort of bacterial or viral agents that, when come in contact with eatables can pose a threat to health condition.
It is recommended that an individual should wash hands up to elbows, thoroughly with antiseptic soap or detergent prior to touching fruits and veggies.
To avert the cross contamination, emphasize on keeping raw fruits and veggies away from uncooked or semi-cooked meats. While shopping, always procure fruits and veggies that appear ripe, fresh, and free of bruises.
Washing of fruits and veggies should be done just before consumption or preparation as washing and then storing harms the natural coating of fruits and veggies which results in early spoiling. It is advisable to wash all pre-packed veggies prior to usage to eradicate preservatives and harmful substances.
Thoroughly wash all portions of fruits and veggies under running water to get rid of bacteria and other harmful organisms that may subsist on peels. Even fruits like oranges should also be washed prior to peeling.
The best way to conserve nutrients while washing fruits and veggies is to smoothly rub them under running water. Never use soaps, detergents, or any sort of chemical agents to clean fruits and veggies as it can lead to loss of nutrients. The usage of sprays and washes available in market for the purpose of cleaning fruits or veggies should be discouraged.
Procuring a veggie brush is much useful in cleaning firm fruits and veggies like, apple, potatoes etc. Smoothly scrub veggies and fruits with vegetable brush and then soak in running fresh water, for an effectual removal of unhealthy substances.
The outer leaves of veggies like lettuce, cabbage etc ought to be completely removed and then washed under running fresh water to eradicate remaining dust, preservatives and pollutants. However, small fruits like berries should be allowed to drain in a strainer post washing.
It is recommended that post washing, drying fruits and vegetables with cloth should be avoided. Instead of cloth, allow them to dry in natural air.
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