Handle Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Safely
Photo used under license from www.istockphoto.com
- Wash hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds before and after handling fresh fruits and vegetables.
- Clean all surfaces and utensils, including cutting boards, countertops, peelers and knives that will touch fresh fruits or vegetables, with hot water and soap before and after food preparation.
- Rinse fresh fruits and vegetables, including those with skins and rinds that are eaten, under running tap water. Use a produce brush if needed.
- Never use soap or bleach to wash fresh fruits or vegetables.
Julie Garden-Robinson, Food and Nutrition Specialist, NDSU Extension Service
Featured in Food Wise April 2017 newsletter (PDF)
