Below are some pointers to keep in mind when handling fruits and vegetables, and other foods, as well. TIPS For Safe Handling of Fruits and Vegetables Wash hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds before and after handling food, especially fresh whole fruits and vegetables and raw meat, poultry and fish. Rinse raw produce in water. Don't use soap or other detergents. Use plastic , rather than wooden, cutting boards.
Bacteria can hide in the grooves of wooden ones.
Always wash boards after cutting raw meat, poultry or seafood and before cutting another food to prevent cross contamination. Stick with pasteurized juices and cider. If you do buy unpasteurized cider, boil it for 5 minutes before drinking. This will kill bacteria. When buying from a salad bar , avoid fruits and vegetables that look brownish, slimy or dried out.