Do you clean your berries properly: Doctor explains what actually works |

Berries usually look clean when you bring them home. Bright, firm, and ready to eat. Many people rinse them quickly and move on. That habit feels harmless. It is also where problems start. Soft fruits grow close to the ground and are handled many times before reaching a shop shelf. They pick up more than just colour and sweetness along the way. A doctor’s recent post has pushed this issue back into focus, not with alarm, but with a simple method backed by research. It does not involve special sprays or expensive tools. Just a bowl, some water, and a common kitchen ingredient. The point is not fear. It is knowing what actually works before you take the first bite.

Do berries really carry pesticide residue

Yes, often more than people expect. Berries have thin skins and grow in clusters, which makes them harder to clean thoroughly. Because of this, they tend to hold on to residues from farming.Doctors and food safety groups often point out that berries, especially strawberries, appear regularly on lists of produce with higher pesticide levels. This does not mean they should be avoided. It means they should be cleaned properly before eating.

Why is washing with water not always enough

Running water removes dirt and some surface bacteria, but it does not break down many pesticides. These chemicals are designed to stick to plants through rain and irrigation.Berries can also carry bacteria from soil, animals, or human handling during harvest and transport. A quick rinse helps, but it does not deal with everything sitting on the surface.

What did the doctor say about cleaning berries

Dr Myro Figura, an anaesthesiologist, shared his advice on Instagram after discussing pesticide exposure. He pointed out that strawberries often rank high on lists of produce with pesticide residue.He also shared a list commonly referenced by food safety experts, which includes:

The message was practical rather than alarmist. Eat your fruit, but clean it properly.

What is the science backed way to clean berries

Dr Figura recommends a baking soda solution. The method is simple and supported by research.Here is how it works:

According to a study from the University of Massachusetts, this method removed up to 96% of the pesticides they tested. That figure is what has drawn attention.

Should you remove strawberry caps before washing

If you plan to store strawberries, it helps to keep the green caps on until you are ready to eat them. Removing them early allows water to seep into the fruit, which can affect taste and texture.When you are ready to wash and eat, remove the caps first. Then soak or clean the berries. The caps often hold more residue than the fruit itself.

Is vinegar another option

Yes, white vinegar is another commonly used method. It is not as strong against pesticides as baking soda, but it can help reduce bacteria.To try this method:

This works best as a general clean rather than a pesticide focused solution.

What is the safest way to eat berries

There is no need to stop eating berries. They remain rich in fibre, vitamin C, and antioxidants. The key is slowing down for a minute before eating them.A proper soak, a careful rinse, and a bit of patience go a long way. It is not complicated. It just tends to be skipped.(Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your diet.)