Homemade Fruit + Veggie Wash
We know Fruit and Veggies are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and an extensive list of health benefits. However, they also have the potential to make us sick. Some fruit and veggies are more susceptible to the pesticides sprayed on them. The environmental working group puts out a list each year that helps navigate the produce we should purchase organic, and which can be purchased conventionally. The list is called the dirty dozen.
The Dirty Dozen
I save this list to my phone and limit my purchases according to their recommendations.
Here are a few tips on cleaning and storing
My general rule is not to wash any produce before refrigeration; this helps in allowing for maximum freshness. Lettuce, for example, is fragile and won’t last long if too much moisture is left on the leaves. Some vegetables can tolerate the dampness more. When I get home, I spray the leaves, with water(fine misted spray bottle), and place in a container, just a bit of moisture will prolong the life. Make sure to seal the container you are using or the bag, if you prefer.
Berries are different; they can’t survive with any moisture. If you notice berries tend to go bad fast, they start to stick together because of humidity and contact with another berry; mold begins to grow. When choosing, your berries make sure to look at the bottom of the container for any signs of wetness; you want berries that are dry inside. When I get home, I remove the berries from their original container, place a paper towel in the bottom of a new glass container placing the berries on top.
There are several choices of bags that help to prolong the life of produce.
Simple Ecology Organic Cotton Muslin Produce Bag – Set of 6 (2 each of Lg., Med. & Sm.)
The Original Eco Friendly See Through Washable and Reusable Produce Bags – Soft Premium
Recipe Veggie Wash
- Glass spray bottle Amber Glass Spray Bottles
- 1 cup water
- 1/3 cup organic white vinegar
- 1 organic lemon juice or 3-5 drops lemon essential oil mydoterra.com/abundantlivingmommy
Use: When cleaning lettuce, you can break leaves apart in the sink, spraying each leaf. Leave for 5-10 minutes, longer(up to 20 minutes) if non-organic. Or you can fill a clean sink with water add 1/3 cup vinegar fresh lemon and let soak. Rinse and let dry.
Larger vegetables, I find it easier to fill a sink with the mixture, let soak and rinse.
