For this reason, specialists told the publication “Martha Stewart” in detail in which situations soaking in a baking soda solution will actually be beneficial, and when it can damage products.
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Real chemical properties
First of all, it is necessary to understand the real chemical properties of these powders. Baking soda creates a mildly alkaline environment, which softens dried-on dirt well and breaks down certain types of chemicals present on the surface of products. However, it is important to remember: if pesticides have already penetrated deeply into the plant tissues, no baking soda will clean them out from there.
Product structure – very important
The second important nuance is the structure of the products themselves. Baking soda solution is ideal for treating hard root vegetables and dense inflorescences, but completely unsuitable for soft and fragile natural goods. Dietitian Kimberly Baker warns that prolonged exposure in alkaline water damages delicate tissues, so vegetables instantly lose firmness, proper texture, and flavor qualities.
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Baking soda is not an antiseptic
Moreover, baking soda has never been and will never be an antiseptic. It helps mechanically wash off deposits but is powerless against dangerous infections. Vanessa Coffman, director of the “Stop Foodborne Illness” alliance, emphasizes that these powders cannot destroy viruses, parasites, or bacteria that have entered microcracks or penetrated inside the product. To avoid food poisoning, washed products must be stored separately from dirty ones, thus preventing cross-contamination of microbes.
Safe washing algorithm
The safe washing process is simple. Culinary research specialist Jessica Gavin recommends dissolving 1 teaspoon of baking soda in 2 glasses of cool water. Vegetables should be fully submerged in the liquid for no more than 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. After that, the products must be thoroughly rinsed under running water and dried with a towel. If there are many products, the volume of the solution can be proportionally increased, the main thing is to maintain the initial ratio of ingredients.
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The best products to clean with baking soda are:
- potatoes and carrots;
- broccoli and cauliflower;
- cucumbers and sweet peppers.
It is strictly forbidden to wash with baking soda:
- mushrooms;
- spinach;
- lettuce and leafy kale;
- any other soft leafy vegetables and greens.
