Wash the produce
Wash all whole fruits and vegetables before preparing them – even if the skin or rind will
not be eaten. This prevents pathogens from being transferred from the rind or skin to the
inside of the fruit or vegetable when it is cut. To prevent spoilage and mold growth during
storage, it is best to wash fresh fruits and vegetables immediately before preparing
them. Wash all bagged produce, even if the bag says ‘pre-washed’.
Wash fruits and vegetables under clean, running water in a clean sink. Fresh fruits and
vegetables should not be soaked in water. Do not use detergents, soaps or bleach to
wash produce. These products may change the flavor and could be poisonous. If the
fruits and vegetables are firm (such as potatoes or melons), scrub them with a clean,
sanitized fruit/vegetable brush. For soft fruits and vegetables (tomatoes), gently rub them
with your hands to loosen the dirt. Also remove the outer leaves of lettuce and cabbage
before washing them.