To Rinse or Not to Rinse, That is the Question…

Cleanliness is always best, right? Not always! Modern American society places a high value on cleanliness. We

are quick to cleanse and to disinfect — our homes, our bodies, and our food. While it may seem to be common sense that washing something can’t be harmful, in truth there are certain foods in our kitchens that should
not be washed as we prepare them… and by washing them we actually achieve the opposite, and spread bacteria! Some of our food safety rules have subtly changed over the past decade, and it can be hard to keep
track of what is accurate and correct. Here are a few of the updated food safety recommendations:

Meat and Poultry:
While many of us were taught to rinse raw meats and poultry before cooking, this is a no-no. Our intention may be to rinse off harmful bacteria, but in reality we are cross-contaminating -- spreading bacteria to our sink, countertops, and cooking areas. The only way to adequately eliminate bacteria in meat and poultry is with heat. Cooking to the recommended temperature and using a thermometer to confirm it is the only way to destroy harmful bacteria and avoid food-borne illness. Click here for updated temperature recommendations: https://www.foodsafety.gov/keep/charts/mintemp.html.
Bagged greens:
Even though the directions on most bags of pre-washed greens advise that additional rinsing is not necessary, many of us give them an extra rinse, out of habit or precaution. In actuality, this causes more risk,
as we are likely to introduce bacteria and germ residue from our inadequately cleaned sink, kitchen equipment, or hands into the mix. The current advice is to skip the extra wash and use straight from the bag.
Fruits and Veggies:
Thoroughly rinsing fruits and vegetables is recommended. The vegetable washes available for purchase are not FDA approved, and experts strongly advise not to use washes, detergents or soap products on produce items. It is important to rinse fruits and vegetables before cutting them, including avocado, melons, and carrots. Even though you may peel them, cutting through a dirty exterior can transfer bacteria to the inside.
Cutting bruises off of fruits and veggies is recommended, as those spots can harbor developing bacteria.

As we age we are more vulnerable to infection, so changing our kitchen
patterns to avoid the spreading of bacteria is especially important.

If you have concerns about the health or dietary habits of the seniors in your life, please reach out to us at Eldercare Services. We can help!