How to Clean Raw Carrots

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As a root vegetable, you want to make sure a carrot is dirt-free and that harmful bacteria are removed before you eat it. But you don't need a peeler to get the orange veggie squeaky clean. All you need is a vegetable scrubber or scouring pad, some water and a little elbow grease.

Things You'll Need

  • Fresh carrot

  • Cutting board

  • Knife

  • Vegetable brush or scouring pad

Warning

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration suggests that you not use specialized fruit and vegetable washes to clean your produce. These types of products have not been fully tested for safety and effectiveness, and may not clean your carrots as well as advertised.

Step 1

Place carrot on a clean cutting board.

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Step 2

Cut off top of carrot.

Step 3

Turn on kitchen sink faucet. Allow water to run until it's lukewarm.

Step 4

Scrub the carrot under running water with a vegetable brush or clean scouring pad. Turn the carrot as you go to clean all sides.

Tip

Don't clean your carrots until you're ready to use them so as to decrease growth of bacteria and spoilage. If you're trying to prep ahead, dry your clean carrots thoroughly with a clean towel before putting back in the refrigerator, suggests the Colorado State University Extension.

Warning

Do not use bleach or detergent to clean your carrots. The chemical can penetrate the porous skin and make it unsafe to eat.

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