Experts Reveal the Best Ways to Clean Cucumbers of Dirt and Pesticides

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How To Wash Cucumbers To Remove Dirt and Pesticides, According to Experts

In our kitchen, most vegetables are simply washed under a stream of tap water. This includes cucumbers, whether they are being prepped for salads or sandwiches.

According to Debbie Petitpain, a registered dietitian and spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, washing cucumbers under running water is an effective method to clean off any dirt and chemical residues. However, she emphasizes that it should be a thorough washing.

“You should keep the cucumber under the water for at least 60 seconds,” suggests Petitpain. “Rubbing the cucumber gently with your hands while rinsing it helps in removing visible dirt and reducing residues. If you’re short on time, this quick rinse should make your cucumber safe to consume!”

To enhance your cucumber cleaning technique, Petitpain recommends using a soft-bristled vegetable brush or a soaking solution. She advises scrubbing the cucumber’s skin thoroughly, particularly if it’s conventionally grown. “Cucumbers often have a waxy layer that can hold pesticides, so it’s crucial to scrub well, especially around the ends where dirt usually gathers,” she explains.

If the waxy coating is off-putting, peeling the cucumber is an option. “However, keep in mind that the skin is rich in fiber and nutrients,” Petitpain notes.

Try a Baking Soda Soak

For those who want to ensure their cucumbers are thoroughly clean, consider a soak in a baking soda solution. Mix about a teaspoon of baking soda per cup of water in a bowl and let the cucumber sit for 10 to 15 minutes. Petitpain points out that baking soda is proven to help reduce some types of pesticide residues.

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After soaking, it’s crucial to rinse the cucumber under running water to remove any remaining baking soda and dirt.

Properly Dry the Cucumbers

It’s best to wash cucumbers just before you plan to use them. Storing them wet can promote bacterial growth.

“Moisture can increase the likelihood of mold developing on fresh vegetables,” explains Don Schaffner, Ph.D., a professor at Rutgers University and a member of the Institute of Food Technologists’ Food Microbiology Division.

Once rinsed, dry the cucumbers thoroughly with a paper towel or a clean cloth towel.

Tips for Purchasing and Storing Cucumbers

“Selecting fresh cucumbers starts at the grocery store,” advises Schaffner. “Always choose cucumbers that are free from visible damage or soft spots.”

Upon bringing them home, cucumbers should be stored in the refrigerator, ideally at or below 41°F. However, Schaffner warns not to set the refrigerator too cold as this can lead to freezing, which damages the cucumbers and causes them to spoil more quickly.

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