There are two types of people in the world: those who religiously wash their oranges and those who don’t give it a second thought. If you fall into the second group, you might be wondering – what’s the point of washing something you don’t eat the peel of? But consider this: whether you’re peeling, cutting, or zesting, the outer surface can carry bacteria, dirt, or pesticides that may transfer to the juicy fruit inside. So, is washing citrus a must? Let’s dive into the pros and cons of both sides.

When it comes to citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and limes, their thick, protective peels might make washing seem unnecessary. After all, you don’t eat the skin – so why bother, right? But here’s the twist: what’s on the outside can easily transfer to the inside during cutting, zesting, or handling. From pesticide residues to bacteria picked up during transport, there’s more to this question than meets the eye. So, should you rinse that orange? Let’s settle the debate with science and good hygiene.

When do you need to give it a rinse
Citrus fruits often carry dirt, pesticides, or bacteria on their surfaces, especially those handled frequently during packaging and transport. Cutting into an unwashed fruit with a knife can transfer these contaminants to the flesh, potentially affecting your health.

Moreover, citrus zest – used in baking and cocktails – is often grated directly from the peel. Washing the fruit ensures the zest is free of unwanted chemicals or microbes.

When skipping a wash is fine
If you're simply peeling and eating the fruit, you might assume that washing isn't necessary. While the risk is lower in such cases, clean hands and utensils remain crucial to avoid indirect contamination.

How to properly wash citrus fruits

  • Rinse under cool running water.
  • Use a vegetable brush to scrub the peel gently.
  • Dry the fruit with a clean towel.
  • If the fruit is particularly waxy, a quick soak in warm water with a splash of vinegar can help remove residue.

It all depends on the purpose
To wash or not to wash? If you’re cutting, zesting, or handling citrus fruits in any way that exposes the peel to the fruit inside, it’s better to play it safe and give them a quick rinse. Cleanliness ensures flavour and safety in every bite.

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