What should be done to raw fruits and vegetables to prevent Norovirus contamination?

To effectively prevent Norovirus contamination on raw fruits and vegetables, washing them using clean water is essential. Norovirus, which can be transmitted through contaminated food and surfaces, can survive on produce surfaces. By properly washing fruits and vegetables with clean water, you can remove dirt, bacteria, and viruses that may be present.

Using clean water helps in physically removing contaminants and reduces the risk of foodborne illnesses. Soaking fruits and vegetables in contaminated water or leaving them unwashed would exacerbate the risk of illness by potentially introducing pathogens onto the food. While soaking in vinegar can have some antimicrobial properties, it is not a substitute for thorough washing with clean, potable water, as it may not effectively remove all contaminants. Therefore, cleaning fruits and vegetables with fresh, clean water is the most reliable method to minimize the risk of Norovirus and ensure food safety.