Simple Fruit Wash Removes Pesticides and Keeps Produce Fresh
Researchers at the University of British Columbia developed a natural fruit wash. It removes up to 96 percent of pesticide residues.In addition, the wash creates an edible coating. This slows browning and moisture loss.As a result, fruit stays fresh for days longer.
The formula uses tiny starch based particles. These come from corn and potatoes.Iron and tannic acid make the particles sticky. They bind to pesticides and pull them off the fruit.For example, a simple rinse with water removes less than half of residues. This wash removes up to 96 percent.
Longer Freshness, Less Waste
Fresh‑cut apples are browned more slowly. They also kept more moisture over two days.Whole grapes stayed firm for up to 15 days at room temperature. Untreated grapes shriveled much faster.The coating acts like a breathable second skin. It even limits harmful bacteria growth.
Safe and Affordable
The wash adds only a small amount of iron. This stays well within daily limits.The ingredients are low‑cost and mix with water. Therefore, the wash can scale for commercial use.It would add roughly three cents per apple. That matches current coatings but adds pesticide removal.
A Future for Home Use
Researchers envision a spray or tablet. People could add it to water before washing fruit.Further testing and approval are still needed. Nevertheless, this innovation could reduce global food waste.“People shouldn’t have to choose between fresh produce and worrying about pesticides,” says Dr. Tianxi Yang.
