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What You Should Do Immediately
- Stop eating the fruit as soon as you notice the worm.
- Discard the fruit or cut away the affected area if the rest of the fruit looks firm and clean (some people prefer to throw it out entirely, which is perfectly fine).
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
- If the fruit was cut on a surface, clean the cutting board and knife.
Is It Dangerous?
In most cases, accidentally eating a small portion of fruit with a worm is unlikely to cause harm, especially if the fruit was fresh. However, it can increase the chance of stomach discomfort for some people, so it’s best not to continue eating it.
If you feel unwell afterward, let a trusted adult know and seek medical advice if needed.
How to Prevent It in the Future
- Wash fruit thoroughly under running water before eating, even if you plan to peel it.
- Inspect fruit closely, especially berries, cherries, apples, and peaches.
- Store fruit properly—refrigeration can slow down egg hatching.
- For soaking, a saltwater or vinegar rinse (followed by a clean water rinse) can help remove hidden insects from berries.
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