What precautions should I take with leafy greens?

Answer

People should always follow these practices:

• Wash leafy greens well under running water for 20 seconds.
• Packaged, triple-washed leafy greens should not be re-washed as that can introduce bacteria.
• Eat leafy greens soon after you buy them and before the best-by date.

People in vulnerable groups – those with weakened immune systems, the elderly and pregnant women – can take additional precautions with leafy greens. Consider using leafy greens that you can cook. Cooking greens until they are fully wilted heats them enough to be safe. Fortunately, leafy greens like kale and spinach are delicious and just as nutritious when they are cooked as when eaten raw.