How to wash strawberries

1. Clean with running water

Strawberries are easily infected by microbial diseases due to the conditions in the breeding process, especially purchased strawberries, which are often treated with pesticides. However, their skin is very fragile and the flesh is sweet and juicy, so they are not suitable for washing by hand. It is recommended to use running water and wash for a longer time to avoid soaking in water containing pesticides, which may cause pesticide penetration.

2. Soak in light salt water

Strawberries cannot be eaten immediately after being washed with running water, because the surface of the strawberries is rough and harmful substances may remain at every point. It is recommended to soak them in light salt water or rice water.

Take a clean container, put the strawberries in it, and pour in rice water/salt water. Salt water is chosen because it has a bactericidal effect and can kill harmful microorganisms. Rice water is used because it is an alkaline substance, and pesticides are generally acidic, which promotes their decomposition to a certain extent. It doesn’t take too long, about 5 minutes.

3. Notes

(1) For the sake of cleanliness, many people like to use detergent or dishwashing liquid to wash fruits. In fact, this is wrong. A large amount of chemicals and harmful substances will remain on the fruits. This should be avoided when washing strawberries.

(2) Many people like to remove the strawberry stems for easier eating. This can easily cause pesticide residues to seep into the flesh. It is recommended that you remove the stems before eating.