Can regular dishwashing detergent be used to wash fruits and vegetables? First, look at the product's intended use, and also consider local guidelines.

"Can wash tableware" does not equal "can wash fruits and vegetables for consumption." Tableware is a hard surface that is not directly consumed after washing, whereas fruits and vegetables may be porous, have cracks, or are consumed directly after washing. When making a judgment, first refer to local public health guidelines and the product's current labeling, rather than relying solely on marketing terms like 'degreasing,' 'food-grade,' or 'natural.'

The U.S. FDA guidance for home consumers does not recommend using soap, household detergents, or commercial fruit and vegetable washes, citing reasons such as the porous nature of produce, potential absorption of products, and the fact that safety and effectiveness of residues cannot be assumed by consumers. The conservative approach is to wash hands first, cut away damaged areas, rub under running water, use a cleaning brush for firm produce, and dry with a clean paper towel or cloth.

FoodSafety.gov also separates different targets: fruits and vegetables should be rinsed under running water without using soap, bleach, or commercial fruit and vegetable cleaners; cutting boards, utensils, and countertops that come into contact with raw meat, poultry, seafood, or eggs should be cleaned with hot soapy water. The key difference is not that there is only one set of cleaning logic in the kitchen, but that the food itself and the surfaces of utensils bear different risks.

The CDC's fruit and vegetable safety recommendations also include separating raw and cooked foods, refrigerating pre-cut fruits and vegetables promptly, and noting that products labeled 'pre-washed' or 'ready-to-eat' usually do not need to be washed again. For hard surfaces like melons and cucumbers, a clean produce brush can be used under running water; for leafy vegetables, remove damaged or outer leaves. Washing can reduce surface contamination but cannot guarantee the elimination of all microbial risks.

The catering business environment has more detailed regulatory pathways. The FDA Food Code allows the use of certain chemicals to assist in cleaning fruits and vegetables when complying with specified regulations and used strictly according to instructions; this does not mean that households can use any dishwashing detergent in the same way. The products, concentrations, equipment, and processes used in business scenarios need to meet the corresponding regulations, and this rule cannot be used to generally endorse ordinary household dishwashing detergents.

The product description of EPHYONgong's 500g/bottle tableware and fruit and vegetable cleaner confirms the product name, liquid formulation, and the fruit and vegetable usage listed in the current product details. It indicates that there are product records on the market that clearly distinguish their intended uses, but it does not imply that all EPHYONjing dishwashing products or all brands of dishwashing products are suitable for fruits and vegetables. Before actual use, you should still check whether the label on the physical product maintains the same intended use, dosage, and rinsing instructions, and follow local guidance.

Conservative practices at home can be summarized in four steps: first, wash your hands and any tools that come into contact with fruits and vegetables; wash under safe running water before cutting or peeling; gently brush firm-skinned whole fruits and vegetables with a dedicated cleaning brush; and dry them and refrigerate cut perishable fruits and vegetables promptly. Do not use hand soap, laundry detergent, disinfectant, bleach, or ordinary dishwashing detergent on fruits and vegetables.

If the authoritative guidance in your area differs from a product's label, or if the product label is unclear, damaged, or expired, you should stop making your own assumptions and consult the local food safety authorities or the brand's customer service.