What crucial step must be taken when using canned lima beans to diminish added sodium content?

Rinsing them thoroughly under cold water

When opting for canned lima beans due to convenience, a critical preparation step involves rinsing them extensively under a stream of cold water before they are incorporated into a dish. This action is not merely for aesthetics or removing excess liquid residue from the canning process; it serves a very specific and important physiological function. Thorough rinsing significantly diminishes the levels of sodium that were intentionally introduced during the preservation stage of canning. For any individual who is diligently monitoring their sodium intake, particularly for reasons related to maintaining healthy blood pressure, this simple rinsing procedure is considered a vital and non-negotiable part of meal preparation to ensure the nutritional advantages of the bean are preserved without the added sodium load.