Heres what you better know before biting into that juicy summer peach.
Butcanyouand, more importantly,shouldyoueat a peach’s uniquely fuzzy skin?
Yes, peach skin is edible, but there are certain cases where you might want to avoid it.
Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
Heres what it’s crucial that you know before you bite into an unpeeled peach.
Why Is Peach Skin Fuzzy?
First things first: Why do peaches look different from otherstone fruitslike nectarines and plums?
That signature peach fuzz is actually the fruits natural defense mechanism.
Hundreds of tiny hairs protect the delicate flesh from insects and excess water.
Is Peach Skin Edible?
Yes, you’re able to eat peach skin.
Just like peach flesh, the skin of a peach is edible and nontoxic.
Why Do Many Recipes Call for Peeled Peaches?
Are There Other Reasons To Avoid Eating Peach Skin?
So there is an argument for avoiding eating the skin of conventionally grown peaches.
But that doesnt mean you have to give up the fruit or even peel it before you eat.
You should alwayswash your produceunder cool running water before eating.
You also can buy USDA-certified organic peaches, which will reduce the exposure to pesticide residue.
Are There Benefits To Eating Peach Skin?
Harvard Health.Try a FODMAPs diet to manage irritable bowel syndrome.
EWG’s Shopper’s Guide.The Dirty Dozen.
Major study documents benefits of organic farming.
Cleveland Clinic.All the health benefits of eating peaches.
