The last few days have been horrible for those living in the Northeast. Thanks to the Canadian wildfires, we had dangerously polluted skies. worse that smoke settled on our produce . What is the exact aftermath?what can we do to ensure our fruits and veggies are safe to eat.
it's no lie that everyone was rightly scared after smoke from the Quebec and Nova Scotia provences. even though the Canadians firefightersnwere out in full force along with help from siix hundred American fire fighters, the fires raged on. It sent down a blanket of smoke that affected every aspect of life. The worst is that plants were affected .The smoke itself won;t have any major effect on veggies or fruit. However you should wash anything from the garden or the local farmer's market. You could try a produce spray if you;re really worried or a white vinegar soak. This will rid the skins of any impurities from smoke particles to pesticides. It's submerging your fruits and veggies in a cup of white vinegar and soaking them for fifteen minutes. Drain the water and give the produce a quick rinse, To dry, lay your fruit and veggies out a kitchen towel until completely dry. You can also dry each piece individually if you have the time. As for those stil growing veggies in th e garden, hose them down when the smoke clears. This rinses away any residue that might have settled on them, Also apply fertilizer to encourage heathy roots and new leaves.
Is it safe to eat outside yet? It depends on where you are. Two days ago when Manhattan looked more like Mars , it was unthinkable. The city's air quality was the worst in the world along with Philadelphia and Washington D.C., The skies are clearing now and people are craving to enjoy the June weather. The answer is up to you. if you 're not too old or have very young children , then the answer is yes . However if you feel your eyes are watering and your throat scratchy, then immediately ask for an indoor table. The restaurant will be glad to accomodate you. Also try to sit as far away from the doorway as you can The door will always be opening ,letting in air with each swing. You may have to ask the manager to close any windows if they''re open too. The last thing diners want is smoky air wafting voer their food.What about those already planned picnics and beach outings? Have the elderly and young wear masks until it's time to eat. (although masks may come off when kids hit the water)If the air quality is stillo bothersome, then look for a place where they can sit inside if it's possible.
Hopefully the Canadian wildifres won't be a harbinger of what's to come. We need to enjoy our air along with our produce , free from smoke and impurities. Its up to us to make sure this doesn't happen again.
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