What is the proper way to wash produce to ensure safety?

Rinsing produce under running water without the use of soap or chemicals is the preferred method for ensuring the safety of fruits and vegetables. This technique effectively helps remove dirt, bacteria, and pesticide residues that may be present on the surface of the produce. Water alone is sufficient because it displaces contaminants through the mechanical action of running water.

Using soap or vinegar is not recommended for washing produce, as these substances are not safe for consumption and residues may remain on the food despite rinsing. Additionally, soaking produce in a bleach solution can lead to harmful chemical ingestion if not rinsed thoroughly and can damage the produce itself.

Thus, rinsing under running water is a straightforward and effective method recognized by food safety guidelines to ensure that produce is safe for consumption.