When It Is Best to Buy Organic

If ever there were a time to splurge on organic produce, it is when you are buying strawberries. The reason? The scarlet beauties lack a rind or peel that can protect against pesticides. What's more, their porous surface allows chemicals to penetrate the flesh, so you cannot just scrub them clean. No organic strawberries nearby? You can still enjoy the juicy gems worry-free. Simply soak them in a solution of one pint water and 1/4 tsp. dish detergent for a half hour, then rinse. The detergent will ot affect the flavor, but the cleansing agents will neutralize any pesticide residue so you can savor the berries without a care.