Don't be scared of veggies!
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| Mon, 02-19-2007 - 8:38am |
Did the '06 outbreaks of E. coli infection caused by tainted spinach and leafy greens make you a little nervous about shopping for produce? Our advice: Let vigilance ease your fears.
Yes, fruit- and vegetable-related illnesses are on the rise. Maybe it's because we're eating more of them, upping the chances we'll encounter a bad bug. Maybe it's because we're importing more foods -- shipping increases the risk of contamination. Or it could be we're buying more precut vegetables and salads that have had more handling. Whatever the cause, once the fruits and veggies enter your home, you're in charge of food safety.
Start by washing your own hands with warm water and soap while you say your ABCs -- a good way to make sure you lather for 20 seconds -- before preparing any food. Then, follow these simple debugging tips to help keep your family healthy:
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Toss any fruits or vegetables that have broken skin.
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Wash all produce under running water. Be sure to wash melons and any other food you're going to peel before you cut them.
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Drink only pasteurized juice or cider.
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Remove the outer leaves of leafy vegetables.
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Avoid serving alfalfa sprouts to children under 5.
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Wash your cutting boards well before and after use.
Originally published on 02/19/2007.


Good Article... I would be upset if they told me that I cannot eat veggies/fruit.
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Again, some great tips! I know that generally I'm pretty lazy about washing fruit and veggies, but will try to be a bit more cautious!