08/20/2026
THE BAKING SODA PRODUCE HACK
Why it matters
Fruits and vegetables can carry dirt, waxes, and pesticide residues on their surfaces. Simply rinsing with water can remove some contaminants, but research suggests that a baking-soda solution may be more effective for removing certain pesticide residues from some produce.
How to use it
Mix baking soda with water, soak your fruits or vegetables briefly, then gently rinse them thoroughly under clean running water.
Think beyond blueberries
This can be used as a produce-washing approach for items such as apples, grapes, strawberries, leafy greens, peppers, broccoli, and other fruits and vegetables.
But here's the catch
Baking soda doesn't remove every pesticide, and washing cannot make produce completely pesticide-free. Effectiveness depends on the pesticide, produce surface, and how strongly the residue is attached.
The simple habit
Whatever produce you choose, washing it properly before eating is one easy step toward cleaner food.
DISCLAIMER: This content is for educational
purposes only and is not medical advice. Washing produce can reduce some surface contaminants.