We all know fruits and veggies are grown with pesticides, even organic, though the pesticides are natural. What you may not know is that some produce has loads more pesticide residue than others. That's where the Environmental Working Group (EWG) comes in. Every year, they unveil the Dirty Dozen, a list of the non-organic, conventionally grown fruits and vegetables most likely to have chemical pesticide residue. Knowing which ones are on this list can help you make informed choices at the grocery store
2024's Dirty Dozen Lineup:
Some familiar faces like strawberries and spinach are back on top this year. But watch out for grapes - they've climbed the ranks to number four! Here's the full list of the 2024 Dirty Dozen:
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Strawberries
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Spinach
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Kale, Collard & Mustard Greens
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Grapes
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Peaches
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Pears
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Nectarines
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Apples
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Bell & Hot Peppers
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Cherries
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Blueberries
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Green Beans
How To Get Rid Of Pesticide Residue
The good news is washing your produce thoroughly is a super simple way to reduce pesticide residue! There's no need for expensive gadgets or special washes here! Just good old-fashioned rinsing with cold water is all you need to reduce pesticide residue by up to 62%. Want to go the extra mile? Make a wash with 1 teaspoon baking soda in 2 cups of water. Spray, let it sit for five minutes, and rinse. That will cut pesticide residue by up to 98%.
Avoid The Dirty Dozen Altogether and Shop The Clean Fifteen
If you want to avoid pesticide residue with conventionally grown produce, look no further than the EWG's Clean Fifteen! This handy list highlights fruits and veggies that consistently test low in pesticides. (*Note: While sweet corn and papaya are on the Clean Fifteen, some genetically modified varieties exist. Opt for organic if you prefer non-GMO produce.)
1. Avocados
2. Sweet corn*
3. Pineapple
4. Onions
5. Papaya*
6. Sweet peas (frozen)
7. Asparagus
8. Honeydew melon
9. Kiwi
10. Cabbage
11. Watermelon
12. Mushrooms
13. Mangoes
14. Sweet Potatoes
15. Carrots
