Why should you wash pomegranates or melons if you are going to cut into them?

Question

Find out why you must wash melons before slicing. Learn how bacteria on the outside can be transferred inside by your knife if you skip this step.

Answer 1

You should wash pomegranates and melons before cutting them to prevent transferring bacteria from the rind to the edible flesh as you slice through. This reduces the risk of foodborne illness.

Detailed Explanation:

Even though you don't eat the rind of a pomegranate or melon, the knife you use to cut through the skin will inevitably drag any bacteria or contaminants present on the surface into the fruit's flesh. These fruits grow close to the ground and can harbor bacteria like Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria. Washing removes these harmful microorganisms, dirt, pesticides, and other residues.Here's a step-by-step guide to properly washing these fruits:1. **Rinse under running water:** Hold the pomegranate or melon under cool, running water.2. **Scrub the surface:** Use a clean produce brush to scrub the rind thoroughly. Pay attention to any crevices or textured areas where dirt might accumulate.3. **Rinse again:** Rinse the fruit again under running water to remove any dislodged debris.4. **Dry with a clean towel:** Use a clean towel or paper towel to dry the fruit completely before cutting. This helps prevent bacteria from spreading further.

Pro Tip:

Consider using a diluted vinegar solution (1 part vinegar to 3 parts water) for washing, especially if the fruit has a particularly rough or dirty rind. The vinegar helps to further disinfect the surface. Be sure to rinse thoroughly with plain water afterward to remove any vinegar residue.