However, a good, thorough rinsing under cold, running water is always recommended for fresh fruits and vegetables. Not only will it wash away many chemical residues, but it will rid your food of some microbial contaminants, too. Most scientists say that's even more important. The minuscule amounts of pesticide residues on fruits and vegetables are generally thought to be much less of a health threat than bacteria and other microorganisms that can be on the surface of our favorite fresh snacks. Because of that, it's important to rinse off even produce that's been grown organically.
Any food can be subject to microbial attack.
A few years ago, some manufacturers came out with special rinsing agents for fruits and vegetables. Again, most nutritionists and food scientists say they are unnecessary. Food scientists also recommend that fruits and vegetables be rinsed immediately before consuming them. For example, don't rinse the entire head of lettuce to store in the refrigerator for the rest of the week. Just rinse off the leaves that you'll use at the next meal.