Discover the art of cleaning your fresh produce effectively! Join our exclusive Produce Prep Class and learn the secrets to properly clean your fruits and veggies. Kristy Morrell RD will share techniques, tips, and tricks to remove dirt, pesticides, and bacteria while preserving nutritional value. Tailor your cleaning routine for maximum efficiency and taste.

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Kristy Morell explored an often-overlooked but crucial aspect of healthy eating—properly washing fruits and vegetables. The session was sparked by a simple yet significant question from a participant: What is the best way to wash produce to ensure safety and cleanliness?

Why Proper Washing Matters

Kristy emphasized that thoroughly washing fruits and vegetables is a critical first step in healthy meal preparation. While many of us are accustomed to giving produce a quick rinse, Kristy revealed that more thorough methods are necessary to avoid exposure to harmful chemicals, bacteria, and even parasites.

She explained that pathogens such as E. coli and salmonella can linger on produce surfaces. When fruits like watermelon or cantaloupe are cut, bacteria from the outer skin can transfer to the inside flesh, making it important to wash all produce, even if the peel is not consumed.

The Best Method: Cold Running Water

According to Kristy, the simplest and most effective way to clean produce is by rinsing it under very cold running water. This method helps wash away dirt and surface residues while preventing pathogens from entering the pores of fruits and vegetables. She cautioned against soaking produce, particularly berries, as this can cause contaminants to remain on the surface.

Instead, using a colander or a salad spinner with running water is recommended. Kristy also mentioned using a light brush for produce with thicker skins, such as potatoes, squashes, and zucchinis, to help remove dirt and potential pesticides.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

Kristy warned against relying on popular cleaning methods like vinegar or lemon juice washes, noting that they might not be as effective as water alone. Additionally, she advised against purchasing shiny apples, as the sheen often indicates a wax coating, which can trap pesticides. Instead, opt for dull-skinned apples and consider buying organic whenever possible, especially for produce on the 2023 'Dirty Dozen' list, including strawberries, spinach, and green beans.

A Secret Weapon: Grapefruit Seed Extract

One of the standout tips from the class was Kristy’s recommendation to use grapefruit seed extract for cleaning produce. By mixing 20 drops of grapefruit seed extract with four cups of cold water and storing it in a spray bottle, you can create a powerful cleaning solution. Simply spray the mixture on fruits and vegetables, then rinse under cold water to eliminate pesticides and bacteria effectively.

The Importance of Seeds

Kristy also discussed the nutritional value of seeds in fruits and vegetables, urging participants to avoid seedless varieties whenever possible. Seedless produce, she explained, is often genetically modified, which can alter its natural nutritional profile. By choosing fruits with seeds, you not only enjoy a more natural product but may also benefit from the nutritional richness of seeds themselves.

Looking Ahead: Detox and Wellness

As part of the broader wellness conversation, Kristy hinted at upcoming opportunities for GoldCare members to learn more about detoxing from everyday toxins. With exposure to plastics, pollutants, and chemicals, a well-guided detox could help reset gut health and promote overall well-being.

Key Takeaways

• Always wash fruits and vegetables under cold running water.
• Avoid soaking produce, especially berries, to prevent contaminants from clinging to surfaces.
• Consider using grapefruit seed extract as an effective, natural cleaning solution.
• Opt for produce with seeds to maintain natural nutritional benefits.
• Stay tuned for future GoldCare classes on detox and wellness.

Kristy’s class served as a valuable reminder that small, mindful practices—like properly washing produce—can have a big impact on our health. As she noted, taking an extra step in cleaning fruits and vegetables is a simple yet powerful way to keep our bodies nourished and safe.