Details - Public Health Image Library(PHIL)

ID#:

11433

Caption:

Properly cleaning fresh, uncooked produce is a must when preparing a meal, and with this in mind, the elderly woman pictured here was doing just that, as she was thoroughly cleaning a number of carrots and radishes. Note that there was soil still clinging to the tubers, which would have to be entirely removed using vigorous scrubbing with soapy warm water. Cleaning will also remove environmental pollutants, such pesticides from the foods’ surfaces.

The cleanliness of the food preparation environment is also an important aspect to food safety. Therefore, prior to cutting these foods, one should first properly clean the sink area using soap, and fresh running tap water, in order to remove any pesticides or unwanted chemicals from their surfaces as well.