How to Really Remove Pesticide Residue from Fruits and Vegetables

We’ve all done it grabbed an apple from the fridge, given it a quick rinse, and taken a bite. But with growing awareness about pesticides in our food, many of us are left wondering: Is rinsing with water really enough?

The short answer: Yes, it’s the most effective and realistic thing you can do.

Why Rinsing with Water Works

Washing your produce with clean, cold water does more than just remove dirt and dust. It helps reduce pathogens, adhesive from stickers, and yes some pesticide residues too. According to the National Pesticide Information Center, it’s the easiest and most reliable way to minimize your exposure to chemical residues on fruits and vegetables.

No need for fancy sprays or produce washes. Water alone has been shown in multiple studies to remove up to 80% of pesticide residues, depending on the type of produce and pesticide involved. A 2017 study in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that using water with baking soda was slightly more effective, but the difference was marginal compared to just rinsing thoroughly.

Here are some quick tips for better washing:

• Use your hands to gently rub the surface under running water.

• For firm produce like apples or cucumbers, use a clean produce brush.

• Always dry with a clean paper towel or cloth to remove additional residues.

What About Peeling or Cooking?

Peeling fruits and vegetables may remove some of the pesticides but it also strips away valuable nutrients and fiber found in the skin. For example, apple peels are rich in polyphenols and fiber, both linked to heart health and better digestion. So the trade-off isn’t always worth it.

As for cooking, high heat may degrade certain pesticides, but many are heat-stable and survive cooking temperatures. So while sautéing your spinach might reduce some residue, it won’t eliminate it entirely.

Why You Can't Avoid Pesticides Completely

Even organic or “all natural” produce can contain trace pesticide residues. That’s because:

• Organic farming allows the use of naturally derived pesticides.

• Cross-contamination can occur through water, soil, or wind.

• Labels like “pesticide-free” aren’t regulated and may refer only to synthetic pesticides.

In the U.S., government agencies like the EPA set limits for what’s considered a “safe” level of pesticide residue in food. These tolerances are designed with large safety margins, but the concern for long-term exposure especially in children still makes minimizing intake a priority for many families.

Should You Buy Produce Washes?

Commercial vegetable wash products often claim to remove more pesticides. However, research shows they’re no more effective than water and they may leave behind their own residues. Plus, they can be expensive and unnecessary. Stick to what works: rinse thoroughly and eat a varied diet to minimize repeated exposure to any one chemical.

Making Informed Choices

While it's nearly impossible to eliminate pesticides from your produce entirely, the goal is to reduce exposure in ways that are easy and practical:

• Wash thoroughly with water.

• Buy organic when it matters most (think thin-skinned produce like berries or spinach).

• Eat a diverse range of fruits and vegetables to lower repeated exposure.

And if you're concerned about the source of your produce, ask your local farmer or grocer about their growing practices. Just be aware that, as of 2025, tracking pesticide use isn't consistently mandated, so transparency may vary.

Supporting clean, sustainable farming practices is an important part of Israel’s agricultural vision, where innovation and environmental stewardship go hand in hand. If you found this guide helpful, share it with a friend or subscribe to our newsletter for more.