HOW TO WASH A CANTALOUPE
In light of the latest news about cantaloupe killing our neighbors, I feel it is important to talk about how to wash a cantaloupe: The University of California Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources reveals how to wash a cantaloupe in their Publication 805. I have copied an exerpt here:
"Cantaloupes should be washed before preparing and eating. It is best not to wash cantaloupes before storage; this helps to ensure a longer shelf life for the uncut fruit. The spaces within the netted rind on the cantaloupe acts as protection for the bacteria, often making bacteria difficult to remove. Most bacteria can be removed by scrubbing the whole melon with a clean vegetable brush under clean running water. After washing, blot the melon with clean paper towels to remove excess water. Place on clean surface, and cut off the stem end about 3/4 to 1 inch from the end. Cutting within the kitchen sink in not recommended. Place the melon on a clean cutting board, plate, or other surface with the cut end facing down. With a clean knife, cut the melon from the blossom end to the stem end. Wash the knife with clean running water and set aside. Gently scrape out the seeds with a clean spoon. Continue to into slices or as desired.
The use of dish soap or detergent is not recommended or approved for washing fruits and vegetables. Produce items, especially cantaloupes, are porous and can absorb detergent residues."
These instructions are how to wash cantaloupes under normal conditions. If you have purchased any of these tainted cantaloupes, it is recommended that you simply throw them away.
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