Life Hack: Wash Vegetables with Running Water
Many people like to soak vegetables in clean water for a while, believing this makes them cleaner and safer to eat. In fact, soaking vegetables for a long time before washing does not remove pesticide residues more effectively; it can even increase carcinogenic nitrites.
First, soaking is not more effective for removing pesticide residues. The main component of pesticides is organophosphorus, which is not water-soluble. In contrast, using running water with dish soap to soak and then rinse is more effective at removing pesticides.
Second, long-term soaking of vegetables also increases nitrite content. Soaking vegetables can also increase nitrites. After soaking in clean water for 20 minutes, the nitrite content in vegetables is higher than in vegetables washed with dish soap and then thoroughly rinsed.
It is best to rinse vegetables 3-4 times with running water and try to avoid soaking. If soaking is necessary, do not exceed 20 minutes. When eating raw vegetables, adding minced garlic and lemon juice can reduce the risk of nitrite poisoning.