For the 10th year in a row the nonprofit advocacy agency, the Environmental Working Group (EWG), has released its list of the most pesticide-contaminated produce, and once again apples top the Dirty Dozen.
The Dirty Dozen, part of the EWG’s yearly Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce, is compiled from U.S. Department of Agriculture data on 48 fruits and veggies with pesticide residue data. About 65 percent of the produce samples test positive.
The Dirty Dozen (purchase these organic) consists of: Apples, Celery, Cherry Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Grapes, Nectarines, Peaches, Potatoes, Snap Peas, Spinach, Strawberries, Sweet Bell Peppers. Include Hot Peppers, Kale and Collard Greens.
The Clean Fifteen (may purchase organic or conventional) consists of: Asparagus, Avocados, Cabbage, Cantaloupe, Cauliflower, Eggplant, Kiwi, Grapefruit, Mangoes, Onions, Papayas, Pineapples, Sweet Corn, Sweet Peas, Sweet Potatoes.
Organic produce has not been shown to have higher nutritional content than conventionally grown produce, however it’s pesticide content is much lower.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, pesticides have been linked to developmental problems in children, and may act as carcinogens or throw off the endocrine system. It appears to be more concerning for pregnant women, women breastfeeding and children.
Although there are still controversies and debates around pesticides, it’s my recommendation to purchase the Dirty Dozen Organic and purchase plenty of produce from Clean Fifteen.