Why is washing produce before use necessary?

Washing produce before use is essential primarily because it helps eliminate dirt and pesticide residues that may be present on the surface of fruits and vegetables. Even organic produce can have residues from fertilizers and natural pesticides, making it important to wash them thoroughly to ensure food safety. Proper washing significantly reduces the risk of chemical exposure and helps prevent foodborne illnesses caused by pathogens that may be present on the produce, such as bacteria or viruses.

Enhancing the flavor or adding nutritional value are not direct benefits of washing produce, as the flavor generally comes from the inherent qualities of the produce itself, and washing does not change its nutritional content. Similarly, while washing may remove some surface contaminants that could affect cooking, it does not specifically speed up the cooking process in any significant way. Thus, the focus on the removal of dirt and residue establishes washing as a critical step in food preparation.