Potatoes, a late harvest season vegetable, are one of the few produce items I still have fresh from the farmers market. When stored properly, these spuds should last me through a large part of the winter. However, cleaning these root vegetables can be challenging, especially if they come covered in mud or dirt straight from the farm. There is also a concern about potential pesticide residues on potatoes compared to other vegetables. To address these issues, I consulted with a food scientist to gather essential information on how to effectively clean potatoes.
Cleaning Dirt and Pesticides from Potatoes
The level of dirt on supermarket or farm-fresh potatoes can vary greatly. While grocery store potatoes are usually pre-washed and free from large clumps of dirt, those from specific farmers may still have stubbornly stuck-on dirt. Pesticide residues on potatoes are not visible to the naked eye, making it harder to assess. According to food scientist Abbey Thiel, potatoes have previously appeared on the Environmental Working Group’s ‘Dirty Dozen’ list due to concerns about pesticide residue but are not included in the 2024 list. Nonetheless, there may still be traces of pesticides on non-organically grown potatoes, as their skin is exposed to potentially sprayed soil.
Despite the pesticide concerns, it is important to continue consuming these nutrient-rich starchy vegetables. Thiel emphasizes the importance of eating a diverse range of fruits and vegetables and not solely focusing on the ‘Dirty Dozen’ list. Thiel also stresses that washing produce thoroughly is crucial in minimizing risks associated with pesticide residues.
How to Clean Potatoes to Remove Dirt and Pesticides
There are several methods to clean potatoes upon purchase to eliminate dirt and reduce pesticide levels. One straightforward approach is to peel the potatoes after rinsing them under cold running water to remove any large dirt clumps before peeling. Thiel suggests washing the potatoes under running water and using a brush or hands to dislodge dirt from the skin if you prefer to keep the skins on.
For those who wish to preserve the flavor and nutrition of potato skins, soaking the potatoes in a solution of white vinegar and water or a commercial produce wash for five to 10 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing can help lower pesticide residues and facilitate dirt removal.
While it is not possible to completely eliminate pesticide traces from potatoes at home, these cleaning methods can significantly reduce pesticide levels. If pesticide residues remain a concern, choosing organic potatoes can be a preferred option.
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