If something looks dirty, sticky, or like it’s been handled by who-knows-how-many people before it makes it into your kitchen, giving it a good scrub with soap seems like the right thing to do. But food is one area where that logic doesn’t always work.
The problem is that soap isn’t meant for food, and in some cases, all that extra washing can create another problem entirely. The USDA specifically advises against using soap or detergent on raw meat and poultry and recommends washing fresh fruits and vegetables under running water instead.
Here are 10 things you may be tempted to scrub with soap and what to do instead.
Raw Meat and Poultry
Raw chicken, turkey, beef or pork can look messy straight from the package, so I understand the instinct to want to wash it before cooking. But this is one time when washing doesn’t make it cleaner or safer. Skip the soap and the rinse altogether, and let proper cooking take care of the germs.
Apples
Apples can have visible dirt or residue on the outside, but you don’t need soap to get them ready to eat. Rinse them thoroughly under running water and scrub the firm surface with a clean produce brush if needed.
Potatoes
Pulling a potato covered in dirt out of the bag certainly makes you want to give it a serious cleaning. Running water and a good scrub with a clean produce brush are enough, even if you’re planning to eat the skin.
Related: Before You Dump Those Potato Peels, Wait Until You See What They Can Actually Do
Tomatoes
A tomato doesn’t need dish soap or a special produce wash before you slice it for a salad or sandwich. Rinse it well under running water, then remove any damaged or bruised areas before cutting.
Grapes
Grapes can sometimes feel sticky or look a little dusty straight from the package, but adding soap isn’t necessary. Rinse them thoroughly under running water before eating and skip anything that isn’t intended to be used directly on food.
Lemons and Limes
It’s easy to forget to wash citrus when you’re not planning to eat the peel, but your knife passes straight through the outside when you cut into it. Rinse lemons and limes under running water instead of washing the peel with soap, especially before slicing or zesting them.
Cucumbers
A cucumber may have dirt or residue on its skin, particularly if you’re planning to eat it without peeling it. Wash it under running water and gently scrub the firm surface when needed rather than reaching for soap or detergent.
