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Health Tip: Prevent Produce Problems

(HealthDay News) -- Produce can harbor germs that can make you sick, so it's important to prepare these foods properly.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics offers these suggestions:

  • Just before you eat them, wash all vegetables and fruits with cool tap water.

  • Scrub firm produce (such as melons) with a produce brush. Rinse softer produce with plain water.

  • Throw away the outer leaves of a head of lettuce.

  • If you see any damaged or bruised spots on your produce, cut them out and discard.

  • Use a paper towel or clean dish towel to dry produce.

  • Cook any raw sprouts before eating.