A study found that soaking fruits and vegetables in a mix of 1 teaspoon baking soda and 2 cups of water for 12–15 minutes removes 96–99% of pesticides, like thiabendazole and phosmet, from their surface.
This works much better than just rinsing with water or vinegar.
Baking soda’s alkaline nature helps break down and wash away pesticide residue on foods like apples, cucumbers, and grapes, making it a safe and cheap way to clean produce at home.
Quick Tip: Soak your fruits and veggies in the baking soda mix for 12–15 minutes, then rinse them with clean water.