Time and time again we experience people at home as well as professionals who cook with unwashed produce. And it gets us every time. Running the risk of sounding preachy, both of us still have to say something. Because we care about those people. Like we care about you.

Washing fruits and vegetables is important for several reasons. First, it removes dirt, bacteria, and other contaminants from the surface of the produce. Second, it helps to remove any pesticide residue that may be present. Finally, washing fruits and vegetables can help to reduce the risk of food bourne illness.

Which fruits and vegetables are most sprayed with pesticides?

According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), some fruits and vegetables are more likely to be contaminated with pesticides than others. The EWG's "Dirty Dozen" list includes the following produce items:

1. Strawberries

2. Spinach

3. Kale

4. Nectarines

5. Apples

6. Grapes

7. Peaches

8. Cherries

9. Pears

10. Tomatoes

11. Celery

12. Potatoes

Types of pesticides used

Pesticides are chemicals that are used to kill insects, weeds, and other pests. There are many different types of pesticides, including insecticides, herbicides, and fungicides. Some pesticides are more toxic than others, and some are more likely to leave residue on produce. The long and the short is: You do not want molecules designed to kill to enter your body.

Negative effects of consuming pesticide residue

Consuming pesticide residue can have negative effects on health. Some pesticides have been linked to cancer, reproductive problems, and neurological issues. Children and pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to the effects of pesticide exposure.

So if you care about eating healthy then you should most definitely care about washing fruits and vegetables. Some fruits and vegetables are more likely to be contaminated with pesticides than others, and it's important to be aware of these items when making food choices. By washing produce thoroughly, you reduce the risk of consuming pesticide residue and protect our health.

By ‘thoroughly’ I mean in a bowl with body temperature water. Rinsing doesn’t work. Use a sponge for things like peppers, courgettes and aubergines.

A great way to save time and make everyday cooking flow is to wash all your produce and put it in plastic boxes before putting in the fridge. It’ll also stay fresh for longer this way as it’s less exposed to oxygen.

We hope this was useful and not too preachy 😉

Happy home-cooking,

Jens and Michael