What is the real effect of washing fruits before storage? Learn why it can speed up decay and when it's best to wash your produce for longer life.
1 Answer
Washing fruits before storage can remove bacteria, pesticides, and dirt, but it also introduces moisture that can accelerate spoilage. Therefore, it's generally better to wash fruits right before you eat them, not before storing them.
Detailed Explanation:
Washing fruits seems like a logical step to ensure cleanliness and safety. Indeed, washing removes surface contaminants like soil, pesticide residue, and potentially harmful bacteria such as E. coli or Salmonella. However, the added moisture from washing creates a breeding ground for mold and bacteria during storage. This is especially true for fruits with delicate skins, like berries. The excess water encourages faster decomposition, leading to mushy textures, unpleasant odors, and ultimately, a shorter shelf life. Instead, store fruits unwashed in the refrigerator or at room temperature, depending on the type of fruit. When you're ready to consume them, wash them thoroughly under cool, running water. For fruits with thicker skins, like apples or oranges, you can use a vegetable brush to scrub away any remaining dirt.
Pro Tip:
If you absolutely must wash berries before storing them, dry them *extremely* well using a salad spinner or by gently patting them dry with paper towels. Then, store them in a container lined with paper towels to absorb any excess moisture.