This is why you should always clean your produce 💦

Okay, so we've talked all about why washing your fruits and veggies is non-negotiable for health! But what about keeping those beautiful FRUITS & VEGGIES fresh after they're clean? I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that really help prevent spoilage and make my produce last longer, which is so important to me for reducing food waste and saving money. First, after you've given your produce its baking soda soak and rinse, drying is super critical, especially for things you’re not using right away. Excess moisture is mold’s best friend! I gently pat everything dry with a clean kitchen towel or use a salad spinner for leafy greens. For berries, I spread them out on a towel to air dry completely before storing. Then comes storage, and this is where a lot of people, including my past self, can go wrong! Did you know some FRUITS & VEGGIES shouldn't be stored together? For example, I always keep my bananas separate because they release ethylene gas, which ripens other produce faster – not what we want if we're trying to prevent rapid spoilage! Similarly, I store onions and potatoes in separate, cool, dark places. Potatoes can sprout faster near onions. My trick for leafy greens like spinach or lettuce is to store them in an airtight container with a paper towel. The paper towel absorbs extra moisture, keeping them crisp for so much longer. Now, let's talk about the dreaded "M" word: mold. It happens to the best of us! When I see mold on my FRUITS & VEGGIES, my rule of thumb is this: for soft produce like berries, bread, or soft cheeses, if there's mold, it's usually best to toss the whole thing. The mold roots can spread deep. But for hard produce like carrots, bell peppers, or harder cheeses, I’ve learned it's often okay to cut off at least an inch around and below the mold spot. Just make sure it looks and smells perfectly fine afterward! Better safe than sorry, though. A question I sometimes get is about contaminants, like lead. While it’s not a common household concern for most FRUITS & VEGGIES from reputable sources, general thorough cleaning is your best defense. My washing method with baking soda and rigorous rinsing is designed to remove surface residues, dirt, and potential contaminants. Always make sure you're getting your produce from trusted farmers or stores. Finally, a quick thought on organic vs. conventional produce. Some queries mention whether organic is safer. My personal take? While organic farming practices can reduce certain pesticide exposures, all produce, whether organic or conventional, benefits from a good wash. Bacteria and dirt don't discriminate! So, no matter what you choose, keep up with that cleaning routine. These extra steps after washing really are key to enjoying your healthy FRUITS & VEGGIES for longer and keeping them safe.