1. Beware of Microorganisms
Vegetables are good for us, and nutritionists recommend that we eat 7 to 10 servings of them per day. However, eating vegetables that are spoiled or tainted with pesticides is not healthy. The soil where vegetables grow contains bacteria, molds and yeast, and vegetables that are not handled correctly are susceptible to them. Although you can't see these microorganisms, you can see the results of them. For example, vegetables that contain mold don't taste good and are often covered with fuzzy patches. Yeasts also change the taste of a vegetable, as does bacteria. When vegetables are hot or cold these microorganisms can't live, so it's important to keep perishable vegetables refrigerated if you're not going to use them right away. Inspect them carefully before cooking or eating and make sure they're not too soft.
2. Use Your Senses
When it comes to choosing vegetables, use your senses. Don't buy anything that looks slimy, moldy or bruised. In general, very soft produce is too ripe. Never buy vegetables that smell bad. If you don't know how to choose a particular vegetable, ask the produce manager what to look for and how to store the item. If you are buying a vegetable that is pre-cut, make sure it is surrounded by ice and refrigerate it as soon as you get home.
3. Steer Clear of Raw Sprouts
Sprouts should not be eaten raw because they can cause foodborne illnesses. Cook them thoroughly before using them. People with weaked immune systems, the elderly and young children are particularly susceptible to foodborne illnesses.
4. Watch Our For Pesticides
Many people purchase organic vegetables because they are concerned with pesticides that are used in farming. The vegetables that are most affected by pesticides are sweet bell peppers, celery, lettuce, spinach and potatoes. Washing the produce helps, but it does not eliminate all of the pesticide. Choose organic whenever possible. Also, eating vegetables grown locally is best. Avoid produce that is grown in South and Central America, since they use some pesticides in farming that the United States has banned.
5. Wash Produce Carefully
Wash your produce carefully. Sometimes salad or spinach in a sealed bag will say that it is prewashed. If this is the case, you don't have to wash it again, although it doesn't hurt to do so. All other vegetables should be carefully washed and bruised areas should be removed.
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