Before You Discard Your Produce Peels, Read This.

If you've been throwing out the peels from your fruits and veggies, we encourage you to check out these tips first- you might change your mind.

When you discard the peels from fruits and vegetables, you're throwing out some of the value, since they store most of their most beneficial nutrients in the peels. Keep your peels and enjoy amazing uses (and benefits) for your home, skin, and health. 

Six reasons you should use the peels

1. They add flavor to your recipes.
2. Peels are a natural skin cleansing and nourishing agent.
3. They contain lots of nutrition.
4. It's economical, as you can use peels in place of expensive products.
5. Using peels as cleaning agents lowers your exposure to harmful household chemicals.
6. Some peels can act as natural air fresheners for your home.

Here are a few produce peels you can look into:

Onion peels

FOR HEALTH

The onion peel and skin contain lots of antioxidants like quercetin, well-known for its anti-inflammatory properties when taken internally over time.

The best way to reap the benefits of onion peels is to steep them. Toss the whole onion into your soup, stew, or broth. Once done, the nutrients will have steeped into the food, and you can remove the skin.

To enjoy the best benefits, avoid conventional onions. Use organic onions- they contain the fewest pesticides.

Lemon peels

FOR SKIN

Lemon is a natural cleanser. Use the peels on your face to lessen blemishes and help control oily skin. You can either rub the peels on your skin or use them as a face pack.

Lemon face pack:

Allow the peels to sun-dry until they wrinkle, then blend them. Place the pieces on a damp cloth and apply them to strengthen and tone your skin. Also, the scent is refreshing!

AT HOME

To make an excellent anti-bacterial agent, drop lemon peels in a bottle of vinegar then leave them for three days. Shake the container thoroughly before transferring the liquid into a squeeze bottle. Use as a replacement for chemical cleaning agents in the kitchen and for your countertops.

Orange peels

EAT THEM WHOLE

Orange peels carry loads of flavonoids, such as hesperidin and other phytochemicals. In some cases, the peels contain higher amounts of certain nutrients than the flesh.

What's the best way to enjoy orange peels? Use the zest in soup, baked goods, and wraps. Scrape or cut the clean unwaxed skin of an orange to get the zest. For baking, you can use a cup of grated zest with 2.5 cups of baking flour to make tasty orange peel bread.

Remember:

• Buy organic whenever possible, to avoid pesticide residues.
• Ensure to wash your produce thoroughly.
• Gently scrubbing the surface of fruits & veggies helps rid them of toxins.

These uses for fruit peels will amp up your health. You'll reduce your exposure to preservatives, toxic chemicals, and mysterious ingredients while saving money and reducing waste. 

With love,

​The Sole Toscana Beauty Team