Prewashed Salad Does Not Need Another Rinse

Bagged greens labeled pre-washed or ready-to-eat can go straight into the bowl. The FDA says when produce is pre-washed, the package will say so, and you can use it without further washing.

If you rinse it anyway, the FDA says to keep it away from unclean surfaces and utensils to avoid cross contamination. Fruits and vegetables eaten raw should stay separate from raw meat, poultry and seafood, and from the utensils used for them. Wash cutting boards, dishes and countertops with soap and hot water between those jobs.

Buying and storing matter too. The FDA says to choose pre-cut, bagged or packaged produce only when it is refrigerated or surrounded by ice, and to refrigerate all pre-cut or packaged produce at home. Keep the refrigerator at 40° F or below, and use a refrigerator thermometer to check.

For everything else, the FDA says to wash produce thoroughly under running water before eating, even if you plan to peel it, and to skip soap, detergent or commercial produce wash. Dry it with a clean towel, and start with hands washed for at least 20 seconds.