The Environmental Work Group, a non-profit public health organization, released a report that ranks produce by the amount of pesticide on them, using data from federal labs. They came up with “Dirty Dozen, and a “Clean 15” lists.”

 

      Dirty Dozen: These start with the most pesticide residue.

Apples, celery, strawberries, peaches, spinach, imported nectarines, imported grapes, sweet bell peppers, potatoes, blueberries, lettuce, kale/collard greens.

 

      Clean 15: These begin with the least residue.

Onions, sweet corn, pineapples, avocado, asparagus, sweet peas, mangoes, egg plant, domestic cantaloupe, kiwi, cabbage, watermelon, sweet potatoes, grapefruit, mushrooms.

 

      Pesticides have been linked to “nervous system toxicity, cancer, hormone system disruption, and IQ deficits among children.” This is especially troubling if you work with pesticides or if you are especially vulnerable, such as in pregnant women or young children.

 

      “The USDA says the overall pesticide residue levels found are below the maximum allowed EPA levels.”

 

      “The non-profit group admits that the pros of eating non-organic fruits and vegetables outweigh the cons.”

 

      EWP suggests buying organic when it comes to “Dirty Dozen” produce,  and if you are concerned that can be good advice, suggest many dieticians.

 

      Knowing where your food comes from is always a plus: check out local farmer’s markets and buy locally grown food where you can ask about any pesticides used.  

 

      Plant a garden!