Why is simple rinsing insufficient for preparing cactus fruit?
Answer
Glochids are too small and light to be fully washed off
Simple rinsing is explicitly noted as inadequate for completely removing glochids because these defensive structures are microscopic, hair-like barbs that are incredibly light and easy to overlook. Because they detach easily, they may remain embedded in the flesh or skin surface, necessitating physical removal methods like scraping or charring rather than relying on water washing.
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