The "Dirty Dozen" is a list of fruits and vegetables, compiled by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), that you should eat organically to minimize your exposure to pesticides.
By opting for organic versions, you can significantly reduce your exposure to these harmful chemicals while also supporting sustainable farming practices.
Below, you'll find the "Dirty Dozen" list, alongside the "Clean Fifteen," which highlights produce with the lowest pesticide residues.
Strawberries
Spinach
Kale, Collards, and Mustard Greens
Nectarines
Apples
Grapes
Bell Peppers and Hot Peppers
Cherries
Peaches
Pears
Celery
Tomatoes
Avocados
Sweetcorn
Pineapple
Onions
Papaya
Sweet Peas (Frozen)
Asparagus
Honeydew Melon
Kiwi
Cabbage
Mushrooms
Mangoes
Sweet Potatoes
Watermelon
Carrots
Although the "Dirty Dozen" list might cause concern among consumers, it's crucial to recognize the significant benefits of consuming fruits and vegetables, regardless of their cultivation method. Studies repeatedly confirm that the health benefits of a diet rich in plant-based foods substantially outweigh the potential risks posed by pesticide residues. Opting for organic versions of produce from the "Dirty Dozen" list can provide extra reassurance, especially for those worried about chronic chemical exposure from traditional farming methods.
Conversely, the "Clean Fifteen" list identifies fruits and vegetables that generally exhibit lower levels of pesticides in conventional farming. This information helps budget-conscious consumers decide which produce to purchase organic. For instance, avocados and sweet corn often lead this list due to their protective skins or husks, which naturally shield the edible portions from pesticide exposure.
The adoption of organic farming practices benefits not only consumers but also the environment. Organic agriculture typically involves natural pest control, crop rotation, and the use of organic matter for compost, enhancing soil quality, encouraging biodiversity, and diminishing the broader environmental impact of farming. Choosing organic, when feasible, supports both personal health and environmental sustainability.
Ultimately, buying organic or not, increasing your consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables is among the healthiest choices you can make. The "Dirty Dozen" and "Clean Fifteen" lists serve as tools to assist you in making informed decisions, helping you maximize the nutritional benefits of your diet while reducing exposure to potential hazards.
Clean 15
“These 15 items had the lowest amounts of pesticide residues, according to EWG’s analysis of the most recent USDA data.”
“65% of Clean fifteen samples collected had zero detectable pesticides.”
“No more than three pesticides appeared in samples of the first six Clean Fifteen items.”
“<2% Avocados & Sweet corn showed any detectable pesticides, making them the cleanest fruits & veggies on the list.”
“10% of Clean Fifteen fruit and vegetable samples contained two or more pesticides.”
Dirty 12
“Of the 46 items included in our analysis, these 12 fruits and vegetables were most contaminated with pesticides:”
“90% of samples of strawberries, apples, cherries, spinach, nectarines and
grapes tested positive for residues of two or more pesticides.”
“209 pesticides were found in total.”
“13 - 23 pesticides in at least one sample of each item.”
“50 different pesticides were detected on every type of crop on the list, except cherries.”
“100 total pesticides detected Kale, collard and mustard greens, as well as hot peppers and bell peppers.”
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