08.mar.07
Associated Press
J.M. Hirsch
When it comes to motivating people to wash their produce before eating it, visuals, according to this story, seem to help.
Ann Zander, a food-safety expert with the Colorado State University Extension in Longmont, Colo. Was quoted as saying, "Probably 100 people handled that banana before you did. If you have somebody who hasn't washed his or her hands after using the bathroom or has the flu, that's all over it."
The story says the best plan for washing fruits and vegetables is to wash everything. Federal food-safety officials say produce should not be washed with detergents, soaps or bleach, which are not approved for use on food and could make you sick. Though some companies market special produce washes, most experts say clean, cool running water is easier, more economical and just as effective. If you must have a special wash, make your own with water, lemon juice and baking soda.