Should You Wash Pre-Washed Leafy Greens? Find Out Why It Actually Might Be Risky

Keep your salad safe by following these pointers from the Test Kitchen and a food safety expert.

Blaine Moats

True, the produce aisle is home to some of the most nutritious food in the supermarket.

For this reason, its important to wash produce before consuming it.

toberriesand, of course,lettuce.

But what about lettuce, spinach, romaine, or spring mix thats labeled as pre-washed?

What Does Pre-Washed Mean?

This has undergone testing to be proven to be safe.

Dont let this scare you off from eating bagged salad, though.

Should You Wash Pre-Washed Greens?

Pre-washed greens are 100% safe to eat straight from the container.

There will always be a small risk to eating raw fruits and vegetables, including ready-to-eat greens.

Plus, your sink, cutting board, or hands are very likely to bedirtierthan the greens themselves.

The potential benefits outweigh the risks, so store your time.

This will help to avoid cross contamination, Carothers says.

When and How to Wash Leafy Greens

This primer has been all about pre-washed greens.