When it comes to food safety, one of the most common questions people have is whether they should wash certain foods before cooking. While it may seem simple, there are specific guidelines on what foods should and shouldn’t be washed. Some foods benefit from a good rinse, while others can be harmful if washed incorrectly. Here’s a breakdown of the 10 foods you need to be mindful of when washing them before cooking.

Foods You Shouldn't Wash

Although washing seems like a good idea for some foods, in many cases, it can cause more harm than good. Here’s a breakdown of the foods you should never wash before preparing them.

1. Raw Chicken

Washing raw chicken might seem like a good idea to remove bacteria, but it actually spreads bacteria like Campylobacter across your kitchen surfaces, including countertops, utensils, and hands. This bacteria can cause food poisoning, leading to symptoms such as stomach pain, diarrhea, and vomiting. Instead of washing, handle raw chicken carefully, store it at the bottom of your fridge to prevent drips, and cook it to a minimum temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat.

2. Eggs

Eggs come with a natural protective coating that prevents bacteria from entering the shell. Washing eggs removes this protective layer, which can cause them to spoil faster. Most commercial eggs are already cleaned before they are packaged. Unless visibly dirty, there’s no need to wash eggs—just store them in the fridge and use them before the expiration date.

3. Raw Fish

Much like chicken, washing raw fish doesn’t remove bacteria—it only spreads it to other surfaces. The moisture from washing fish can contaminate cutting boards and knives. It’s best not to rinse fish before cooking; instead, ensure it’s cooked thoroughly to kill any harmful bacteria.

4. Pasta

Rinsing pasta before cooking removes the starch that helps sauce stick to the noodles. This starch is essential for that perfect pasta texture. If you want to rinse pasta, it’s best to do so after cooking, especially if you're using it for a salad or cold dish.

5. Mushrooms

Mushrooms are highly absorbent, meaning washing them under running water can make them soggy and cause them to spoil quickly. Instead of soaking them, it’s better to gently wipe mushrooms with a damp paper towel and wash them quickly just before cooking.

Foods You Should Wash

While washing certain foods might not be necessary, there are others where a thorough rinse is crucial to remove harmful chemicals, bacteria, and dirt. Here’s a list of foods that should always be washed before cooking.

6. Canned Foods (Beans, Corn, Peas, etc.)

Canned foods often contain preservatives or brines that can be harmful if consumed directly. Rinsing these items thoroughly before use helps remove excess sodium and chemicals, making the food safer and healthier to eat.

7. Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

Even if you don’t eat the skin, it’s important to wash fresh fruits and vegetables to remove dirt, pesticides, and bacteria. This includes fruits and vegetables with thick skins like melons and cucumbers, as the chemicals on the outside can transfer to the edible parts when you cut them. Wash all your fruits and veggies under running water before cutting, peeling, or eating.

8. Lettuce

Lettuce can contain harmful bacteria like E. coli and Listeria, especially if it hasn’t been pre-washed. Always rinse lettuce leaves thoroughly, and a salad spinner can help dry them quickly after washing.

9. Nuts

Nuts contain phytic acid, which can interfere with the absorption of nutrients in your digestive system. Soaking and rinsing nuts helps neutralize this acid, making them easier to digest and improving their flavor. Make sure to rinse and dry them thoroughly before eating.

10. Dried Fruit

Dried fruit often contains preservatives like sulphites, which help maintain its color and shelf life but can cause allergic reactions in some people. It’s a good idea to rinse and soak dried fruit to remove these preservatives and improve its texture and flavor.

Key Takeaways:

• Don’t wash raw chicken, eggs, fish, pasta, or mushrooms as washing these foods before cooking can spread bacteria, ruin texture, and sometimes even make you sick.
• Always wash canned goods, fresh produce, lettuce, nuts, and dried fruit to remove harmful chemicals, bacteria, and contaminants, making your meals healthier and safer.

Food safety is essential for a healthy kitchen, and while washing is important, it’s not always necessary. By following these simple guidelines, you can minimize risks, enhance flavor, and cook with confidence. If you're unsure, it’s always best to consult professional food safety sources or healthcare providers for more detailed advice.

Stay safe, and happy cooking!