WNJ Exclusive: Guide to healthy apple picking from the Children's Environmental Health Center
Each fall, families head to the apple orchard for this fun, outdoor activity. However, many do not realize that potential exposures can occur while picking apples. Apples may contain pesticides and cider may not be pasteurized - exposing your children to harmful toxins and bacteria.
Before planning your trip, be sure to read the following tips:
- Pick an organic orchard. Before heading to the farm, make sure your orchard is organic. Use the database at PickYourOwn.org to find information about farms near you.
- Make sure your orchard uses integrated pest management (IPM) - not pesticides or herbicides. Integrated pest management (IPM) is the least toxic way to control pests. Before heading to the orchard, call and ask if they use IPM techniques.
- Bring your own re-usable bags to the orchard. To avoid exposure to unwanted chemicals, carry home your apples in a re-usable cotton bag. This not only protects your children from potential exposures, but it is also good for the environment.
- Wash your apples after picking and peel the skin. Due to their edible skin, apples are higher in pesticides than many other fruits and vegetables. Before serving, scrub the skin thoroughly. Then peel to avoid any additional exposure.
- If you're buying apple cider, make sure it is pasteurized. Often times, apples fall to the ground and are exposed to bacteria found in manure. If these contaminated apples are not washed thoroughly, your cider could contain e.coli bacteria. To prevent this risk, make sure all cider is fully pasteurized.
Posted by WILDNEWJERSEY at 10/21/2011 10:00 AM 
Categories: Agriculture
Tags: apple picking ipm pesticides organic orchard apple cider
Categories: Agriculture
Tags: apple picking ipm pesticides organic orchard apple cider
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