How do I remove dirt and pesticides from my produce?

Answer

Washing all produce (conventional or organic) is important.  Washing can remove bacteria, dirt, and pesticides that are on produce.  The best way to wash berries is with a kitchen sprayer.  Use a colander to gently turn the fruit as you spray.  (If you do not have a sink sprayer, place berries in a colander into a large pot of tepid water.  Move the basket in and out of the water several times.  Change the water until it runs clear.  Do this quickly to prevent loss of flavor and texture.) Rinse all fresh fruits and vegetable under running tap water, including those with skins or rinds that are not eaten. Gently rub the outer layer with your hands and use a soft brush for heartier skins/rinds like potatoes or cantaloupe. Soaps or any other cleaning product are not needed.   Please Note: Packaged fruits and vegetables labeled ready to eat, washed or triple washed do not need to be washed.