How to Wash Fresh Produce Safely Before Cutting or Eating

Washing produce helps remove dirt and can reduce bacteria on the surface, but it does not eliminate every germ. FDA recommends rinsing fruits and vegetables under clean running water before preparing or eating them, even when the peel will be removed. Otherwise, a knife or peeler can transfer surface contamination to the edible portion.

A simple washing routine

Start with clean hands, a clean sink area, and clean utensils. Rinse produce under running water and gently rub the surface. Scrub firm items such as cucumbers, potatoes, and melons with a clean produce brush. Cut away bruised or damaged areas, and discard produce that looks rotten. Drying with a clean towel or paper towel can further reduce surface bacteria. Remove the outer leaves of lettuce or cabbage when appropriate.

Skip soap and chemical washes

FDA does not recommend washing fruits and vegetables with soap, detergent, bleach, or commercial produce wash. Produce is porous, and soap can be absorbed even when it is rinsed. The effectiveness and safety of residues from commercial produce washes have not been established. Do not use household cleaners or disinfectants on food.

Wash produce before peeling or slicing, and keep it separate from raw meat, poultry, seafood, and utensils that touched those foods. Washing raw meat or poultry is not recommended because splashing can spread germs around the kitchen. Prewashed packaged produce should be handled according to package directions.

Rinsing is one layer of food safety, not a guarantee. Refrigerate cut produce promptly, keep counters and boards clean, and follow recall notices. People at higher risk from foodborne illness, including pregnant people, young children, older adults, and immunocompromised people, should follow additional food-safety advice from FDA or their clinician.

Sources and further reading

• Selecting and Serving Produce Safely — U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
• 4 Steps to Food Safety — FoodSafety.gov.

Health disclaimer

This article is for general education only. Its information and suggestions are not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and may not be right for everyone. Ask a qualified health professional for advice that fits your health, medications, and needs before changing your diet, exercise, supplement use, or care.