Fruit & Veggie Wash

According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), an estimated 48 million illnesses and 3,000 deaths occur each year as a result of eating contaminated food.

This may be from undercooked meat, not keeping foods properly stored, or from produce.

The USDA says food contamination can occur in produce just from food handlers with poor hygiene who come in contact with the food.

Last June, there was an outbreak of E. coli linked to contaminated vegetables that caused at least 22 deaths and left hundreds others sick.

Just today(June 2012) on the news they announced another new strain of E.coli outbreak in the USA.  It has already killed a 21 month old little girl. 

Don’t think you’re the lucky one that will never get sick from bacterial infested foods!  Be extra cautious!

The possibility of eating contaminated produce is a concern that is very real. This is why it is very important to properly wash and rinse your produce before it is consumed.

  

Fruit & Veggie Wash

1 c water

1/4 c white vinegar

2 tbls. 'Posergy' Himalayan Salt

8 drops 'Plant Therapy' Lemon Essential Oil

Combine in clean spray bottle.   You can also multiply this for a big soaking batch. 

This lasts much longer than when fresh lemon juice is used.  You can use any brand of  UNREFINED HIMALAYAN Salt or PURE, THERAPEUTIC GRADE & UNDILUTED Essential Oil . 

How to Use

1. Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly with water first.

2. Use a scrub brush to lightly scrub produce after rinsing.

Make certain to pay special attention to the stem and blossom area as bacteria can be hidden there.

3. Apply homemade fruit and vegetable wash, let sit for 30 seconds and then rinse.

4. You can dry the produce before eating or preparing to cook.

A Couple Tips on How to Buy "Cleaner" Produce

1. Buy Local Produce

Buying produce that is local means it doesn't have to pass through several hands or travel 1,000 of miles to get to you, so chances are it will be better, and likely safer, for you and your family.

2. Choose Organic Produce

Organic crops cannot be grown with synthetic pesticides or certain fertilizers; therefore, there are fewer risks when you choose organic, BUT washing is still necessary as many hands are handling this produce.  

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) gives these tips to help protect against contamination in produce:

1. Wash your hands 20 seconds with warm water and soap before and after preparing fresh produce

2. Cut away any damaged or bruised areas

3. Gently rub produce while holding it under plain running water

4. Wash produce before you peel it

5. Use a clean vegetable brush to scrub firm produce

6. Dry produce with a clean cloth or paper towel

7. Throw away the outermost leaves of a head of lettuce or cabbage