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The short answer from a registered dietitian
A: No, you do not need to wash ready-to-eat produce. In fact, rewashing can increase your risk of getting sick because your produce may become contaminated with bacteria from your sink, countertop, cutting boards or other kitchen surfaces.
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However, you should always wash produce that does not come prewashed before eating it. This is true even for fruits and vegetables that have a rind you plan to peel like watermelon or cucumber. Otherwise, you could spread bacteria and other contaminants when you slice the fruit or vegetable.
Here are some washing tips:
—Registered dietitian April Verdi, MPH, RD, LD
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