Method 1: Let it sit
The so-called "let it sit" method means to store them. Experiments have shown that after leaving vegetables at room temperature for 24 hours, the pesticides on them can be reduced by 5%. Therefore, letting freshly bought vegetables and fruits sit for a period of time can allow the pesticides to oxidize and degrade, reducing pesticide residues. This is the reason why experienced housewives often say there's no need to buy extremely fresh vegetables. However, it should be noted that this "let it sit" method requires two conditions: a clean environment and room temperature. This does not mean you should buy vegetables that are not fresh at all!
Method 2: Sunbathe
Letting vegetables and fruits sunbathe can also remove some pesticide residues. Using the multi-spectral effect of sunlight, it can break down and destroy some of the pesticides remaining in the vegetables. Tests have shown that after being exposed to sunlight for 5 minutes, the pesticide residues of organochlorine and organomercury in vegetables and fruits are reduced by over 60%.
Method 3: Soak
It is recommended to soak vegetables for a while before washing them. Experienced housewives all know that soaking vegetables and fruits in clean water and then rinsing them with clean water makes them very easy to clean, and various stains will be washed away with the water. However, it should be noted that soaking the vegetables in the morning before work and washing them in the evening after work is incorrect. Vegetables soaked for a whole day are prone to producing nitrites, which are harmful to health. It is recommended that you do not soak vegetables for more than 15 minutes.
Some need to be brushed
Some fruits and vegetables, such as cucumbers, bitter melons, and chayote, have uneven surfaces. For these vegetables, simply rinsing with water may not be enough to clean them thoroughly. For this type of vegetable, we need to choose a soft brush and scrub them gently under running water to solve the problem!
Some need to be peeled
Vegetables like cucumbers, winter melons, pumpkins, and radishes have a waxy surface on their skin that easily absorbs pesticides. Therefore, it is recommended to peel these vegetables before washing and eating them.
Some need to be heated
Those who often wash vegetables must know that the hardest vegetables to clean are "cluster-type" vegetables like cauliflower and broccoli. For such vegetables, it is recommended to blanch them in boiling water after rinsing. In addition, celery, green beans, and lettuce are also suitable for being heated before cooking.