Should papaya be washed before eating for food safety?
                                
                                
                                •
                                
                                
                        
                                    
                                    3 min read                                
                            
                                According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), all produce, including fruits with peels, should be washed thoroughly before preparing or eating. So, yes, you should wash papaya before eating it, despite removing the outer skin, because bacteria can be transferred from the surface to the inner flesh during cutting. This simple but crucial step is key to ensuring food safety and protecting your health.