Every year the Environmental Working Group [EWG], a non-profit advocacy group, updates their list of the fruits and veggies that are most pesticide-ridden “The Dirty Dozen Plus”, and therefore best to avoid, as well as the “Clean Fifteen” which are those fruits and veggies best to choose when possible. EWG is offering the public the science behind what we eat. These pesticides they are identifying are hormone disrupting and they are showing up in the most unusual places–such as on our plates and in our bodies. The idea is that with the knowledge of what to avoid when possible, and what to purchase when available, we can reduce your family’s exposure. For a complete list of the Dirty Dozen Plus and the Clean Fifteen click here.
Here is a sneak peek at the Dirty Dozen [listed in order of most to least residue]:
- Apples
- Strawberries
- Grapes
- Celery
- Peaches
- Spinach
- Sweet Bell Peppers
- Nectarines
- Cucumbers
- Potatoes
- Cherry Tomatoes
- Hot Peppers
Alternatively EWG publishes a list of the Clean Fifteen which are the fruits and veggies with the least pesticide residue. Here is a sneak peek:
- Asparagus
- Avocados
- Cabbage
- Cantaloupe
- Corn
- Eggplant
- Grapefruit
- Kiwi
- Mango
- Mushrooms
- Onions
- Papaya
EWG video takes you on a trip through the grocery store to identify which fruits and veggies are safe and which are not: Click Here
If you have a tough time remembering what is on the list EWG is happy to send you a laminated copy of the Shoppers Guide to Pesticides in Produce for a small donation. Or you can download an app for your iPhone or Android here. Head to EWG for more info.
Both organic and conventional produce is safe. Don’t fall prey to fear tactics by a fundraising organization (they use a $6 million budget to try to make people fear fruits and vegetables!) We ask you to learn the Facts here: http://bit.ly/ZJBsHZ