We are often in a dilemma on
how to handle fruits and vegetables that we get from the market. There is no
evidence that COVID-19 spreads through food – cooked or raw. It is the handling
by people that could cause potential contamination.

We have done it all –
discarding all packaging, leaving it untouched for a few hours, and washing
fruits and vegetables under running water. However, we are not sure if we are
doing it correctly.

Also read: Beat the heat with these seasonal fruits this summer

According to Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), cleaning fruits and veggies with soap and detergent
is not advisable.

Here’s
what they suggest:

1.    Keep the fruits and
vegetables bought from vendors within the packet itself in an isolated place

Also read: Irregular working hours causing sleep disorder? Make it work with these basic steps

2.   
Wash
the fruits and vegetables thoroughly or put a drop of 50ppm chlorine in warm
water and dip them in it.

3.   
Wash
them with potable or clean drinking water.

4.   
Do
not use disinfectants, cleaning wipes or soap on fresh produce.

5.   
Keep
fruits and vegetables required to be refrigerated in the refrigerator. Keep the
rest at room temperature in baskets or racks.

Also read: 6 benefits of Amla to keep you in good health

FSSAI also advised:

1.   
Do
not store or leave the food outside of the house in cars or garages to avoid
the risk of food safety issues like temperature abuse or pest exposure.

2.   
Clean
the sink and platform where food items have been washed. Do not let the drip
fall on the floor or else you must wipe it immediately.

Also read: Dark is the new food fad: 5 black foods we bet you can’t miss

3.   
In
case of food packages, sanitise or disinfect by wiping them with an
alcohol-based solution or soap and clean water.

Follow these
guidelines and stay safe!