Learn the key difference between washing and sanitizing produce. Find out what each process does and when, if ever, sanitizing is recommended at home.
1 Answer
Washing produce removes visible dirt, debris, and some surface microorganisms, while sanitizing reduces the number of microorganisms to a safe level. Sanitizing is an extra step after washing.
Detailed Explanation:
Washing produce involves using potable water, often with gentle scrubbing, to physically remove dirt, pesticides, and other contaminants from the surface. This process primarily focuses on removing visible and easily dislodged substances. It's a crucial first step in preparing fruits and vegetables for consumption.
Sanitizing, on the other hand, goes beyond simple cleaning. It uses a chemical solution, such as diluted bleach or a commercially available food-safe sanitizer, to kill or significantly reduce the number of bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms present on the produce. Sanitizing is particularly important for produce that will be eaten raw, as it minimizes the risk of foodborne illness. The process typically involves soaking the washed produce in the sanitizing solution for a specific amount of time, followed by a thorough rinse with potable water to remove any residual sanitizer.
Think of it this way: washing is like taking a shower to remove dirt, while sanitizing is like using hand sanitizer to kill germs. Both are important for food safety.
Pro Tip:
Always wash produce *before* sanitizing. Sanitizing dirty produce is less effective because the dirt can shield microorganisms from the sanitizer.