or human handling.
Washing vegetables can remove a significant amount of loose soil and surface contamination, but it cannot guarantee complete removal of every microorganism or parasite. Proper refrigeration, clean preparation surfaces, and cooking when appropriate are also important.
Remove Damaged and Outer Leaves
The outside leaves of lettuce, cabbage, and similar vegetables are exposed to the greatest amount of soil, handling, and environmental contact. Removing wilted, damaged, or visibly dirty outer leaves is a practical first step before washing.
For cabbage and compact heads of lettuce, discard the outermost
