As I have mentioned, I prefer original content over rehashed material. That being said, some of you may not have read this list, so I am posting it for your benefit. This content comes from the Environmental Working Group’s Guide to Pesticides. They have determined that some fruits and vegetables are more likely to pick up and hold pesticides and chemicals than others. They did think about washing and peeling and other factors. BTW, rinsing usually doesn’t help get rid of may pesticides and peeling eliminates many nutrients from some produce. If you consume conventional produce from the “Dirty Dozen,” you are likely ingesting 10 pesticides a day. Eating from the “Clean Fifteen” and you are likely taking in 2 or less. Of course, buying organic means consuming none at all. So here are the lists:
The Dirty Dozen:
1. Peach
2. Apple
3. Bell Pepper
4. Celery
5. Nectarine
6. Strawberries
7. Cherries
8. Kale
9. Lettuce
10. Grapes (imported)
11. Carrot
12. Pear
The Clean Fifteen:
1. Onion
2. Avocado
3. Sweet Corn
4. Pineapple
5. Mango
6. Asparagus
7. Sweet Peas
8. Kiwi
9. Cabbage
10. Eggplant
11. Papaya
12. Watermelon
13. Broccoli
14. Tomato
15. Sweet Potato
Just some info to help you in making your food choices. As summer approaches and farmer’s markets start up, be sure to ask about pesticides from your local produce sellers!
