Citrus fruits are among the most consumed fruits in the cold season. In addition, lemon or orange peels are popular in cakes and muffins.
The problem arises, however, when you read the product label and find out with which substances citrus fruits (as well as other fruits and vegetables from other countries) are coated in order to last longer.
If some citrus fruits are covered with beeswax, others, in addition to wax or other resins (which maintain their freshness), can also be treated with substances such as: thiabendazole (antifungal), orthophenylphenol (E231, fungicide) and/or imazalil (fungicide) ).
If you think about the long road that citrus fruits travel from the country of origin to the local gallants, it is clear that they should be “protected” in some way. You wouldn’t buy oranges or lemons that were rotten, moldy, would you?
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Here’s what you should about each of the substances mentioned above:
Thiabendazole: is a fungicide that combines with the wax that covers the fruit. In large doses it can cause nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, dizziness, fainting, headaches. Avoid eating the peel of citrus fruits.
Orthophenylphenol: It is another fungicide that is applied immediately after harvesting the fruits. It can create a stinging sensation if it comes into contact with the eyes.
Imazalil: It is also fungicidal.
To prevent poisoning, it is recommended to wash the fruits very well (with water and vinegar), even if you peel them.
The first rule would be to wash your hands with soap and water before eating or preparing any type of food. Gently rub the products, while holding them under a stream of water. Use a paper towel to wipe the fruit after washing.
For thorough washing of fruits or vegetables, you can also use water with apple cider vinegar or sodium bicarbonate. Fill a large bowl with water, pour apple cider vinegar (proportion: one teaspoon per liter of water), leave the fruit in the water to soak, then rinse under running water. Sodium bicarbonate also has very strong cleaning properties. In a bowl of water, add 3-4 teaspoons of bicarbonate. Leave the fruits or vegetables in the bowl for a few minutes, then rinse under a strong stream of water.
Although there are still people who strongly recommend washing fruits and vegetables with dish detergent, this is not recommended because the chemicals can reach the flesh of the fruit.
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Source: fooducate.com
Image of PublicDomainPictures from Pixabay
Article date: 17/01/2024
2024-01-17 16:10:54
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