Jan 12 2010
Preparation Tips for Fresh Produce
Begin with clean hands. Wash your hands for 20 seconds with warm water and soap before and after preparing fresh produce.
• Cut away any damaged or bruised areas on fresh fruits and vegetables before preparing and/or eating. Produce that looks rotten should be discarded.
• All produce should be thoroughly washed before eating. This includes produce that is grown at home or purchased from a grocery store or farmer’s market. Wash fruits and vegetables under running water just before eating, cutting or cooking.
• Even if you plan to peel the produce before eating, it is still important to wash it first.
• Washing fruits and vegetables with soap, detergent or commercial produce washes is not recommended.
• Scrub firm produce, such as melons and cucumbers, with a clean produce brush.
• Dry produce with a clean cloth towel or paper towel to further reduce bacteria.
