Why should you not use soap or detergent when washing produce?

Question

Find out the important food safety reason you should never use soap on produce. Learn what happens and what safe, effective alternatives you can use.

Answer 1

Soap and detergents are not designed for consumption and can leave harmful residues on produce, even after rinsing. Use produce washes or simply water and gentle scrubbing.

Detailed Explanation:

While it might seem logical to use soap or detergent to thoroughly clean fruits and vegetables, these products are formulated for cleaning surfaces like dishes and clothes, not food. They contain chemicals that are not meant to be ingested and can be difficult to completely remove from the porous surfaces of produce. Even a small amount of residue can cause nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Furthermore, some fruits and vegetables have waxy coatings that can trap soap residue, making it even harder to rinse away. The FDA recommends washing produce under running water and using a scrub brush for firm-skinned items. For delicate produce, a gentle rinse is sufficient. Commercial produce washes are specifically designed to remove dirt, pesticides, and waxes without leaving harmful residues.

Pro Tip:

For berries and other delicate produce, soak them in a solution of water and vinegar (about 1 cup of vinegar per gallon of water) for a few minutes before rinsing. This helps to remove bacteria and mold spores without damaging the fruit.