Health Tip: Washing Food

Washing food before you eat it can help remove harmful germs. But the procedure isn't the same for all foods.

The U.S. Food Safety Inspection Service suggests these tips for which foods to wash and how:

• All fruits and vegetables, even those you peel, should be washed before eating.
• After cutting away areas that are damaged or bruised, rinse produce under running tap water without using any soaps, cleansers or detergents.
• Use a produce brush on firm produce, such as melons or cucumbers.
• Use a clean, dry towel to dry.
• Do not wash meat, poultry or eggs, as this can spread germs.
• Pre-washed, bagged produce usually is safe to eat without washing yourself.