Precut or Whole Fruit?

Let’s talk about precut fruit. Many of us have been enticed into buying those yummy looking plastic containers of precut melon, strawberries, pineapple or fruit medley. However, did you know buying precut fruit raises your risk of foodborne illnesses including Salmonella poisoning?

Recently, the CDC, and the Food and Drug Administration announced a voluntary recall of precut watermelon, honeydew melon, cantaloupe, and fruit medley products due to the possibility of salmonella contamination from nine states and retailers like Walmart, Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s. In addition to the risk of illness, precut fruit is more expensive and ends up being less nutritious because once fruit is cut it begins to break down which reduces vitamin retention. So the next time your ready to purchase fruit choose whole instead of precut. And make sure you wash it before you cut it to eat by thoroughly scrubbing the skin with a brush under running water. It may take a few extra minutes, but your body and your wallet will thank you!