Raw and poorly washed fruits and vegetables can carry the risk of Toxoplasma, Norovirus, Hepatitis A Virus and Listeria monocytogenes. In particular, products of a home vegetable garden could be vehicles of Toxoplasma.

For this reason, especially during pregnancy, it is necessary to wash fruits and vegetables carefully by brushing the skin under running water if the product allows for it. For additional safety, it is recommended to use special chlorine-based food disinfectant products when washing fruits and vegetables.

Among salads, rocket salad is the most risky, as the shape of its leaves protects the microorganisms. When eating away from home, it is best to avoid eating raw fruits and vegetables, if you are not sure whether they have been washed thoroughly.

Pay attention to cross-contaminations that can occur between washed and ready-to-eat fruits and vegetables in contact with unwashed fruits and vegetables, raw animal products, utensils and work surfaces that are dirty and come into contact with the product before washing.