Unwashed Avocado Skins Could Be Poisonous Avocado lovers: beware. A new report from the Food and Drug Administration is stressing the importance of washing avocado skins. The report found that pathogens can be transferred from the rind to the edible flesh of the fruit. The two most alarming pathogens are
salmonella and listeria. Both can cause serious infections. Out of 361 avocado samples tested for listeria, the bacteria was found on 17.73% of their skins. Listeria infects 1,600 people every year in the U.S. and causes 260 deaths. Although most people won't be affected by low levels of the bacteria, those with weakened immune systems should exercise caution. Foodsafety.gov recommends thoroughly washing and scrubbing the skin
before consumption.
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