Zinc is a metal that is normally found in small amounts in nature. It is used in many commercial industries and can be released into the environment during mining and smelting (metal processing) activities. People living near smelters or industries using zinc could be exposed to higher levels of zinc by drinking water, breathing air and touching soil that contains the metal.
Step 3: Blanch the green beans. 1  Bring a large pot of water to boiling. Allow 1 gallon of water per pound of green beans. 2  Fill a large bowl with ice water. 3  Working in batches, carefully lower the green beans into the boiling water.  Boil small beans for 2 minutes, medium beans for 3 minutes, and large beans for 4 minutes.
Wash fresh green beans thoroughly in clear, cool water. Lift beans from the wash water and leave garden debris behind. Rinse again. Break off the end (the top and tail) as you wash them. Leave whole or cut into desired lengths. Beans can be cooked whole, cut crosswise, diagonally or French-cut.