Apple cider vinegar- help!

[ElizaFlo]

Hi everyone!

I am 14 weeks pregnant and I have been TERRIFIED of listeria the entire time. I’m not worried about myself, only the baby, of course. I know all the rules and avoid even more than I probably should.
However, I was cleaning vegetables/ fruit, which I normally use white distilled vinegar and water to do, but I ran out so I doused some apple cider vinegar on them to clean them. I do believe I rinsed them (and I used it on stuff you have to peel, like a banana or orange). I believe I used the white vinegar I had to clean cucumber, etc. but maybe I did use some of the ACV, I can’t be sure. I did not realize it was unpasteurized ACV until today. I used it a couple days to clean them with. I am HORRIFIED and so worried.
My OB did not seem concerned about this particular situation, but I still am. I only talked to him briefly and didn’t get to fully understand the risk of this specific situation.
Can anyone offer some reassurance or insight. Please no one scare me, I’m scared enough as is. I will never use it again. But anyone who has a sound and helpful response, that can potentially bring me some peace of mind, I would really really appreciate it.

Thank you!!!

I'm sorry you're living with this level of anxiety. That sounds so stressful for you.

I really hope you’re getting some urgent support for your mental health, I’ve never heard of anyone doing this. I’m on 2nd pregnancy and I rarely wash anything, only if visibly dirty.

Is it even a recognised risk? I had loads of apple cider vinegar with the mother in throughout pregnancy with no issues.

Wouldn't the acidity of the vinegar make it hostile to any nasties anyway?

You siad you washed with water and the vinegar so will
be fine.

if you didnt use water it was a tiny amount and only to wash the food in.

i never wash fruit or veg you will be ok.

Please ask for some help with your anxiety- are you in the UK? pregnant mothers go to the top of the list for mental health support.

I'd really encourage you to seek support, this level of anxiety is not normal and you need to start addressing it before your baby arrives as they bring a whole additional level of anxiety even for relatively laid back people. Your midwife should be able to signpost/refer you.

Please seek support for your anxiety. You'll be absolutely fine, as will your baby.

I think getting listeria from vinegar might not eveb be possible. Apple cider vinegar is not pastorised because it contains good bacterias and those good bacterias don'tlet bad ones like listeria live.

I always understood vinegar of all sorts to have an anti-bacterial element to it so I am sure you and your baby will be fine.

I think if you are giving fruit and veg a quick wash under the cold water tap that is sufficient tbh.

Please try and enjoy your pregnancy, it is worrying for everyone, but it is also such a special time!