FOOD NEWS
The Best Method For Cleaning Strawberries Is Soaking, Not Rinsing
By Molly Wilson
Rinsing strawberries under running water is a common way to clean them, but soaking them is the best cleaning method to rid them of things you don't want to ingest.
Raw fruit can contain harmful germs, like Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria, in addition to dirt, pesticides, and tiny bugs on the surface, so a good wash is crucial before eating.
A soak in hot water alone requires only around 30 seconds and can extend the berries' shelf life. You can add salt, baking soda, or vinegar to warm water for a deeper clean.
The coarse, abrasive quality of salt removes dirt, pesticides, and bugs. The flavor and texture of your berries stay the same after a five-minute soak and a thorough rinse.
A bit of white distilled vinegar mixed in the warm water has the same sanitizing effect. Soak the berries for around 20 minutes and rinse them well to remove any vinegar taste.
Baking soda is another frequently recommended additive for a strawberry soak, but it can permeate the fruit and make the strawberries softer instead of maintaining their firmness.