With deteriorating AQI, one would think that getting an air purifier would solve the problem. But this is only one solution to prevent your lungs from inhaling hazardous air with heavy metal. How can you protect your food from contamination due to air pollution?
While many believe that air pollution can only damage you, studies point out that the chemicals in the air might be ruining your food. Hence, you need to be extra careful about what you are putting inside your mouth. This list below helps you choose wisely.
Root Vegetables
Contaminated air leaves a residue on the surface of the soil through which root vegetables can absorb heavy metals. Carrots, beetroots, radishes, and potatoes might look clean on the outside but could be hazardous for consumption. The best practice is to purchase from trusted sources and always wash the vegetables and peel off their skin before cooking.
Rice And Grains
Grains and rice grow above the surface and can easily come in contact with the polluted air. They might also absorb harmful chemicals from pesticides. Hence, you must pick the vendors who sell quality produce and claim to use pesticides in a minimal amount. When you are cooking rice and grains, always wash them multiple times, soak them, and drain the excess water.
Dairy And Poultry
From livestock like cows and hens to what they produce, everything can be polluted if the air is impure. For example, if a cow has inhaled heavy metals in the air, the milk and products made from it will likely be affected. Don’t purchase milk from just anywhere, and if possible, try to make ghee, paneer, and curd at home so that you eat clean.
Mushrooms
Mushrooms while growing in a moist environment can easily absorb pollutants in the air. They might be impure for consumption. When you witness air quality in your region deteriorating, you must avoid eating them, especially regional ones. You can consider purchasing mushrooms from other regions and cooking them nicely instead of consuming them raw.
Leafy Green Vegetables
Growing just above the surface area, leafy greens can be easily affected by the chemicals in the air. When purchasing them from the farmer’s market, always avoid buying the ones which appear pale and soggy. If you like gardening, you can grow them in your home. However, when you are cooking them, wash them thoroughly and blanch them to get rid of pollutants as much as possible.
Fish And Seafood
You would think fish and other aquatic animals live in water so how can they be adulterated by polluted air? But little do they know that impurities in air can settle on the surface of water bodies or the skin of animals caught in the sea or oceans. Instead of eating predatory fish, you must consume smaller ones like mackerel, sardines, and salmon.
Thin-Skinned Fruits
Thin-skinned fruits like apples and pears can absorb chemicals in the air. Similarly, berries have a porous texture through which pollutants can get absorbed into fruits. Wash fruits with a solution of either water and baking soda or vinegar. It will remove most of the impurities making fruits safe for your consumption.