You strawberries, with their vibrant color and sweet-acid flavor, are a delight that pleases many palates. However, what you may not know is that these fruits can hide small dangers to your health if they are not properly sanitized before consumption.
In this article, we will explore the importance of correct cleaning of strawberries and the best ways to ensure you enjoy all the nutritional benefits of this fruit, without taking any risks.
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Fruits and vegetables are harvested directly from the ground, and it is common to carry a large amount of bacteriaand microorganisms.
Proper hygiene is necessary to eliminate these possible contaminants and reduce the risk of illnesses related to the consumption of raw foods.
Strawberries, in particular, grow close to the ground, making them especially susceptible to contamination. They can harbor parasites such as
Giardia lamblia, which lay their eggs in the fruit.To ensure that your fruits are free from harmful microorganisms, it is essential to adopt appropriate hygiene practices.
Before we dive into cleaning techniques, it's important to highlight the nutritional benefits of strawberries. These little fruits are packed with essential nutrients such as:
Folic acid;
Antioxidants;
Copper;
Iron;
Fibers;
Magnesium;
Potassium;
Proteins;
Silicon;
Vitamins C and K.
Furthermore, they are naturally low in calories, with only around 33 calories in 100 grams.
Strawberries are not only healthy but also versatile. They can be used in countless recipes, such as jellies, jam, sauces, emulsions, desserts and much more.
Regular consumption of the fruit offers several benefits health, such as:
(Image: Getty Images/Reproduction)
Preventing premature aging: strawberries are rich in antioxidants that fight free radicals and stimulate collagen production, helping to prevent premature aging;
Increased iron levels in the blood: thanks to the iron, folic acid and vitamin C present, fruits help maintain iron levels in the blood, preventing anemia;
Hypertension control: With high levels of potassium, strawberries help reduce blood pressure, making them a healthy option for people with hypertension.
Now that we understand the importance of hygiene, let’s learn how to do it effectively:
Wash with water
Wash the strawberries one by one under running water. Avoid leaving them submerged for a long time, as they may wilt;
If you prefer, soak and rinse them in a bowl of water for a short period of time;
Dry them properly with absorbent paper or a kitchen towel before consuming them.
Vinegar cleaning
Prepare a solution of vinegar and water in a large container (one cup of vinegar for every three cups of cold water);
Wash small amounts of strawberries at a time in the solution for about 30 minutes;
Rinse them again with cold water to remove the vinegar taste;
Dry them with absorbent paper or a kitchen towel.
Remembering that, after cleaning, strawberries should be consumed relatively quickly to avoid contamination after the cleaning process.
There are some situations in which it is recommended not to eat the fruit. Are they:
People with intestinal diseases, such as irritated colon or colitis, should avoid frequent consumption, as strawberries can cause irritation;
Individuals with a history of kidney stones need to moderate their consumption, due to the oxalates present in strawberries, which can contribute to the formation of kidney stones;
Those with allergies to strawberries or their components cannot eat the fruit.
In short, strawberries are a healthy addition to your diet, as long as they are properly sanitized before consumption. With the correct techniques, it is possible to enjoy the nutritional benefits of this delicious fruit, without worrying about your health.
So, the next time you enjoy fresh strawberries, remember the importance of hygiene for a safe and healthy diet.