How should I prepare fruits and vegetables?

Always thoroughly rinse vegetables and fruits -- such as squashes, cucumbers, cantaloupe, and other melons -- that you plan to peel or cut through. Use running water, rather than a bowl of water.

If you prefer to eat the peel, scrub the produce with a stiff vegetable brush to remove dirt and wash thoroughly to remove bacteria. Scrubbing with vinegar will strip off the wax coatings found on veggies such as cucumbers and some apples. And don't forget to cut away any bruises or scars.

Take the RealAge Test!