With headlines swirling around the cyclospora outbreak and during peak salad season, you may be reexamining how to effectively clean your fruits and vegetables at home. The parasitic illness, which causes watery, explosive diarrhea, has affected thousands across the US, and the CDC expects the outbreak to continue through August. Health officials are reportedly looking at iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms supplied to Taco Bell as a possible source.
Why Proper Produce Cleaning Matters
Under normal circumstances, a good rinse would be sufficient, but until a source is confirmed, it doesn't hurt to be extra thorough. The CDC still recommends cooking veggies as the best way to kill the parasite, but taking extra time to thoroughly rinse, scrub, and dry your farm fresh goods can help fend off infection. Even pre-washed bagged veggies may be worth washing again.
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Essential Tools for Cleaning Produce
I've been a food writer and product reviewer for nearly a decade, and I've tested hundreds of cooking gadgets. From veggie brushes to a reliable peeler to a salad spinner, here are six kitchen tools that can elevate the cleanliness of your produce and help keep cyclosporiasis at bay.
| Tool | Purpose | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Salad Spinner | Dries leafy greens | Removes excess water and bacteria |
| Veggie Brush | Scrubs firm produce | Loosens dirt and parasites |
| Peeler | Removes skin | Eliminates surface contaminants |
| Colander | Rinses produce | Allows thorough water flow |
| Produce Wash | Sanitizes fruits/veggies | Kills germs and parasites |
| Cutting Board | Prepares food | Prevents cross-contamination |
Key Takeaways for Safe Produce Handling
- Wash hands and surfaces before handling any food.
- Use a salad spinner to dry greens after rinsing to remove residual water.
- Scrub firm produce like cucumbers and potatoes with a veggie brush.
- Peel fruits and vegetables when possible to reduce risk.
- Consider using a produce wash for extra protection.
- Store cleaned produce in a clean, dry container.
How to Use a Salad Spinner Effectively
After rinsing lettuce and other leafy greens, draining them is a snap with a salad spinner. It uses centrifugal force to send excess water to the outer bowl, leaving you with crisp leaves ready to use. This model features OXO's signature plunger that you can easily operate with one hand and a brake to immediately stop the basket from spinning.
FAQ
What is cyclospora and how does it spread?
Cyclospora is a parasite that causes watery diarrhea and is spread through contaminated food or water, often on fresh produce like lettuce.
Can washing produce remove cyclospora?
Thorough rinsing and scrubbing can reduce the risk, but cooking is the most effective way to kill the parasite.
Should I wash pre-washed bagged lettuce?
Yes, during an outbreak, it's safer to wash pre-washed greens again to remove any potential contaminants.
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