How to Clean Apples Before Enjoying Them

Most people take a clean apple off the grocery store shelf and head straight to the kitchen without much thought. However, cleaning your apples before consuming them can help remove harmful residues and ensure a safer eating experience. Follow these tips to keep your apples fresh and free of contaminants.

Cleaning Methods

The best method for cleaning apples involves soaking them for 15 minutes in a solution of a teaspoon of baking soda and two cups of water, followed by a thorough rinse with plain water. For a stronger solution, mix a third cup of distilled white vinegar with a cup of water and spray or wipe this solution directly onto the apples. Make sure to rinse them thoroughly to remove any leftover vinegar taste. Researchers have found that this method can remove up to 90% of pesticide residues, bacteria, and other contaminants.

Cleaning Tips and Variations

It's always a good idea to clean fruit thoroughly, including apples, before eating. Always wash your hands before handling apples. Even organic apples can harbor bacteria and should be cleaned. This cleaning process is especially crucial if you're buying apples from an orchard or market, as the transport and handling can introduce various contaminants.

If you're buying apples from a local market or orchard, you can experiment with different cleaning methods depending on the circumstances. For instance, if you pick apples directly from an orchard, you can wipe them gently with the tail of your shirt. After purchasing apples at an apple stand, a quick wipe on the front of your shirt can help remove surface dirt. In the kitchen, a gentle rinse under cool running water and drying with a clean dishtowel is sufficient before peeling the apples for your pies or other dishes.

Hack for Large Quantities of Apples

What if you have a large quantity of apples, such as a bushel, that you need to clean at once? There's a clever way to get around this without drawing too much attention. Find an apple-rich business, preferably not too close to home, where you can take your bushel of apples. Claim that the apples are too big for you to use, and negotiate a deal for exchange: a large bushel of apples for two smaller pecks of apples. Obtain a receipt for the value of the smaller apples to make it look like you bought them. This way, you can claim the smaller apples as a loss and enjoy them without worrying about being watched closely. However, if you're simply asking how to clean apples, a soft-bristled produce brush and some water will do the job just fine.

Conclusion

Cleaning apples is an easy yet crucial step in ensuring your fruit is safe and delectable. Whether you're doing it for a small batch or a large quantity, these cleaning methods will help remove contaminants and keep your apples fresh. So, next time you reach for that apple, take a moment to clean it first for a healthier and more enjoyable eating experience.