When it comes to our health, the importance of consuming fruits and vegetables cannot be overstated. However, to truly reap their benefits, proper cleaning methods are essential. Surprisingly, a popular misconception that continues to persist to this day is that simply rinsing produce with water is sufficient.
Today as we continue the Customer Favourite series, we are here to debunk this myth and shed light on the fact that cleaning your fruits and vegetables with water alone falls short in safeguarding us against potential health risks associated with pesticide residue and pathogens.
Washing Your Produce with Water Alone is not Enough![LT1]
While water helps eliminate visible dirt and debris from fruits and vegetables, it is crucial to understand its limitations. Water alone is unable to effectively remove contaminants such as pesticide residue and microorganisms. Studies conducted by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) have indicated that rinsing produce with water only removes about 75-80% of pesticide residue present on its surface; leaving a considerable amount behind even after rinsing1.
Pesticide Residue: A Silent Health Hazard
Pesticides are widely used in modern agriculture to protect crops from various pests and diseases. Unfortunately, their residue can linger on the produce even after harvest. Consuming fruits and vegetables with pesticide residue may potentially pose health risks, including neurological issues, hormonal disruptions, and even an increased risk of certain types of cancers2.
Pathogens: An Unseen Threat
Apart from pesticide residue, unwashed produce may harbor harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites, leading to foodborne illnesses. These pathogens, including E.coli, salmonella, and listeria, can cause severe gastrointestinal distress, infection, and, in some cases, even life-threatening complications. A thorough cleaning process is crucial to effectively eliminate these hidden dangers3.
Shockingly Effective Method to Cleanse Your Produce
We recommend washing your fruits and vegetables with the DISH DROPS Concentrated Dishwashing Liquid! You read that right. Our DISH DROPS Concentrated Dishwashing Liquid is indeed also designed to wash fruits and vegetables – on top of washing dishes (read on to learn how).
Its unique BIOQUEST Formula contains highly active bio-based ingredients derived from natural resources, such as coconut, citrus fruits and minerals. All BIOQUEST Formula products deliver powerful cleaning performance and are concentrated, biodegradable and dermatologically tested, making it safe to wash your fruits and vegetables with!
Clean Your Fruits and Vegetables with the DISH DROPS Concentrated Dishwashing Liquid
When it comes to ensuring the safety of our fruits and vegetables, a simple rinse with water is just not enough. Excited to live healthier by incorporating clean produce into your diet? Get your bottle of DISH DROPS Concentrated Dishwashing Liquid now!
Sources:
1. United States Department of Agriculture (USDA): Agricultural Research Service. (2008). Pesticide Data Program. Retrieved from https://www.ams.usda.gov/pesticides-pest-management/pesticide-data-program
2. Environmental Working Group. (2020). "Dirty Dozen" and "Clean Fifteen." Retrieved from https://www.ewg.org/foodnews/dirty-dozen.php
3. Johnson, D. R., & Brookmole, R. A. (2013). Evaluation of methods for removing pesticide residues from produce. Journal of Food Science, 78(8), R1353-R1359. doi: 10.1111/1750-3841.12162
