Currently, the coronavirus has already inflicted more than 4 million people around the globe, with the USA still topping the list with 1,370,999 total number of cases and 80,870 total deaths, as reported by Worldometers. Despite the dramatic increase of the numbers of people tested positive of the virus, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) still believes that respiratory droplets and close contact from those who have the virus are still the primary ways, which the pathogen can infect one person and another.
But if you belong to the group of those who are more prone to getting the coronavirus such as the elders, people who have underlying health conditions, and smokers, there is no harm to cover yourself with extra protection. Do that by making sure to sanitize the things you brought from your groceries too, most especially your produce. Here are some of the things you have to remember when doing so.
DO NOT WASH YOUR PRODUCE WITH SOAP
Washing your hands with soap and running water for at least 20 seconds can be very effective in killing the pathogens, especially the coronavirus. But did you know, washing your produce using your soap isn't a very good idea?
Soap is harmful once consumed, as it could irritate your digestive system. Depending on the amount you've taken, the effects of it could lead to nausea, upset stomach, and diarrhea. So never use soap or detergents to wash your fruits and vegetables.
WASH YOUR PRODUCE WITH NATURAL DISINFECTANT
As advised by the authorities of the US. Food & Drug Administration, the most important thing to do before storing or consuming your produce is to wash them thoroughly with running, clean, and cool water. But if you prefer it extra sanitized, you might want to try natural disinfectants to clean it.
Bugs and other insects hate seawater, so to help you clean your greens, you may want to use a water-salt solution and soak your produce into it for a few minutes. Also, baking soda can be your best bet in disinfecting your produce. Soak them in a baking soda-water solution before scrubbing them lightly using the rough side of a clean sponge. Another natural alternative you can use for disinfecting is vinegar.
NEVER FORGET TO DRY YOUR GOODS BEFORE STORING
Wet goods are more attracted to pathogens as compared to dry ones. So it is very crucial to always dry your goods before storing it up. Make sure the cloth or paper you will be using is clean and sanitized too.
