Do Produce Washes Really Work?

Produce washes of all kinds claim to clean fruits and vegetables better than water alone. But do they?

In short, no.

Using an all-natural, organic produce wash probably won’t hurt you, but it hasn’t been proven that these washes clean produce better than water alone.

And as for conventional washes that are detergent or chemical-based, they can leave behind harsh residues that change the flavor of food or cause upset stomach. Avoid these types of washes!

What’s the best way to wash produce?

The best way to clean produce is with clean water and a vegetable scrub brush, followed by drying with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. The scrubber brush and towel provide friction, which helps to loosen and release dirt and grime on produce skin.

For melons or other water-heavy fruits and vegetables that will be peeled, washing the outside with lukewarm water and a little mild & fragrance-free dish soap may help prevent residue/bacteria from getting into the edible part of the fruit.

Lastly, if you buy conventional fruits & veggies – as opposed to organic – peeling the skin from fruit and removing the outer layers of vegetables can help minimize harmful pesticide residues.